VILLAGERS in Kampung Kelekok near Seberang La, Hulu Besut in Jertih, were alarmed by frequent attacks on their livestock.
The incidents prompted concerns amongst residents about the presence of a wild predator in their area.
Was a clouded leopard responsible for attacking livestock in Jertih?
Verdict:
TRUE
The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) captured a male clouded leopard believed to have frequently attacked livestock in Kampung Kelekok near Seberang La, Hulu Besut in Jertih on Thursday (Oct 9).
Terengganu Perhilitan director Loo Kean Seong said efforts to capture the leopard were made after receiving a complaint from villagers about the presence of the wild animal on Oct 2.
He told Bernama that an examination was carried out on the leopard to determine its health status before it was released back into its habitat.
He added that this species of leopard is rarely found in Terengganu and that it was the second such capture recorded this year.
The clouded leopard is a protected species under Malaysian wildlife laws.
The successful capture operation was carried out to ensure the safety of both the villagers and the animal itself.
Perhilitan officials worked to trap the leopard humanely after identifying its presence in the village area.
The department regularly responds to human-wildlife conflict situations to protect both communities and wildlife populations.
Source:
Bernama
