Dharamshala Forest Dept warns against wildlife hunting

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The local Forest Department has cautioned residents against hunting wild animals as snowfall may drive leopards and bears towards lower areas in search of food, increasing the risk of human-wildlife conflict.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) Amit Sharma advised people to maintain a safe distance from wild animals and immediately inform the Forest Department about any untoward incident.

He said bears might enter maize fields and fruit orchards in search of food, while leopards could approach residential areas in search of dogs. Residents have been advised to remain alert, particularly during the morning and evening, keep courtyards well-lit and take extra care of children.

In areas frequented by bears, people should make noise while walking through forests or along such routes to alert the animals to their presence. Children should not be allowed to venture out alone in areas where bears are known to roam and must be accompanied by an adult, the DFO added.

Warning against hunting, he said some people attempt to kill wild animals when they move towards lower areas during snowfall. Hunting protected species is punishable under wildlife protection laws, the DFO added.

Sharma said several species are listed under Schedule I, under which hunting may attract imprisonment of up to three years. Certain species are also covered under Schedule II, with legal action taken as applicable.

The Forest Department has directed field staff to monitor wildlife movements and act promptly on the reports of hunting or human-wildlife conflict. Sharma urged residents not to disturb, approach or surround wild animals and to report suspicious activity to the department.