By Tannistha Dey
A leopard that has been spotted multiple times at Pune airport has resurfaced -this time during an unusually quiet spell at the airside caused by the ongoing IndiGo crisis. With several Indigo flights cancelled over the past few days, the usually busy airport has been quiet, creating an unexpected opportunity for the forest officials who have been continuously trying to capture the animal ever since April.
According to a report from The Times of India, the leopard has been captured twice on trap cameras over the past three days. Officials believe it is the same animal that has been repeatedly entering and exiting the airport premises throughout the year, often navigating the area through stormwater drains and other hidden passages.
Deputy Conservator of Forests Mahadev Mohite said the recent sightings have given teams their strongest opportunity yet to capture the animal. He added that the new footage shows the leopard moving around far more comfortably, likely because of the reduced aircraft noise and activity at night. He said the leopard seems less cautious now, which worked in their favour.
The leopard’s movement pattern has been irregular. It was spotted multiple times between April and mid-August—including two sightings on a single day, April 28—before disappearing for months. The animal resurfaced briefly in late November and has now resurfaced again.
To track and capture the leopard, authorities have installed 15 trap cameras across the airside and along the airport boundary. Three tunnel-style cage traps are already in place, with more in setup. Earlier attempts to capture the leopard were unsuccessful, with officials saying it is extremely intelligent and quick to avoid cages even when baited.
While the forest department has clarified that the leopard does not pose an immediate threat, airport ground staff have been advised to remain alert, especially near the runway and surrounding areas. The use of tranquiliser remains an option if the animal continues to linger in the area. With flight operations slowed and nights unusually quiet, officials are hoping this rare window will finally help them bring the elusive leopard to safety.