Mangaluru: Leopard spotted in Kadri; CCTV footage triggers concern

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Feb 25, 2026: A leopard was spotted in the Doctors’ Colony near Kadri Manjunath Temple in Mangaluru, causing concern among local residents. The animal reportedly appeared around 1 am on Monday, February 23, and was clearly captured on CCTV cameras.

The leopard was seen roaming in front of the gate of Doctors’ Colony, and its movement was recorded on two CCTV cameras installed in the area. Except for a small patch of forested land above the Kadri temple area, the surroundings are largely concrete structures. The locality consists mainly of large apartment complexes and villa-style houses, leaving little scope for the animal to find food. The sighting of a leopard in such a densely built-up area has surprised residents.

Two years ago, a wild gaur was found in the same locality and was later driven back into the forest via Shaktinagar. A week ago, a smaller leopard was spotted in the Shaktinagar area and was captured on CCTV. Now, a larger leopard has been seen near Kadri, again on CCTV footage. However, no one has sighted the animal directly so far, and no formal complaint has been lodged with the Forest Department.

Leopards usually venture into human settlements during January and February in search of food. In forest-fringe areas, they are known to prey on poultry and stray dogs. While leopard sightings are common in areas like Bajpe and Neermarga, their repeated appearances in core city areas this time have raised concern.

According to Forest Department officials, leopard movement is common during this season. They say leopards can travel at least 15–20 km in a single night, and they do not remain in one place if they do not find food.