Calf killed in tiger attack in Wayanad

Wayanad: In a latest incident of wild animals straying into human habitat, a nine-month-old calf was killed in a tiger attack at Pulinchal in Sulthan Bathery here on Tuesday. The calf belonged to Kandanthodi Saidalavi.

The incident occurred around 8 am, said Saidalavi. Two calves had been tied in the cowshed while he went to deliver milk to a nearby booth. On returning to take them for grazing, he found one of the calves killed and partially eaten.

In the past, several similar incidents have been reported from the region, sparking public protests against the forest department for its inaction in curbing wildlife attacks. While the department had earlier confirmed that many of the attacks were caused by leopards and laid traps in the affected areas, the animals remained elusive.

Action Council leader Pratheesh Cheeral told Onmanorama that the forest officials who had visited the spot confirmed it as a tiger attack, and discussions are on to lay a trap. He added that the tiger, believed to be around two years old, appeared healthy and active. 

Pratheesh said the Vedankode Estate in the area, with its dense thickets and bushes, has become a safe haven for wild animals entering human habitats. “Since the plantation provides cover, the animals are not returning to the forests at all,” he added.

The presence of wild animals has been reported from several areas, including Cheeral, Kazhambu, Kallumukku, Vellachal, Kozhuvana, Thazhathoor, Kudukky, Karinkalikunnu, and Kailasamkunnu. Pratheesh said that at least four leopards, one tiger, and a bear have been sighted in the locality. 

Farmers, however, complained that they were unable to prevent attacks on livestock. Nearly 20 domestic animals have been killed in the region in recent months. The forest department has installed surveillance cameras and laid routine traps in the area.