Black leopards, popularly known as Black Panthers in the mountains but scientifically referred to as melanistic leopards, are once again being sighted in the forests of North Bengal. The latest sighting was reported near the Kurseong Range and Dowhill under the Kurseong Forest Division, where camera traps captured images of adult black leopards.
Forest officials confirmed that the number of black leopards in the region is gradually increasing, a development they attribute to conservation efforts and strict monitoring. The Kurseong Forest Division currently has the highest number of black leopards, with earlier sightings recorded in Upper Bagora on August 23 this year.
Speaking about the recent sighting, Debesh Pandey, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Kurseong, said, “Black leopards or melanistic leopards have been seen in the mountains before and this time too, they have been recorded. These leopards are not a separate species but a genetic variation of leopards, caused by excess melanin that gives their body a darker coloration. The population of black leopards in the mountains has risen significantly. Trap cameras have been installed in various locations to monitor them and discussions have been held with villagers and homestay owners to ensure their safety.”
Kurseong Ranger Sambarta Sadhu added that cameras have been installed at several points and strict surveillance is being maintained to prevent poachers, tourists or locals from disturbing these animals. “We are paying special attention to avoiding human–wildlife conflict. Even when villagers collect firewood once a week, they are taken under supervision to ensure safety,” he explained.
The hills have witnessed multiple sightings of black leopards in recent years. One was spotted in Chimni on January 23 this year, while last October, sightings were reported in Bagora forest and Gimni.
In June last year, another was seen crossing a road in Chimni, just 8 km from Kurseong. Darjeeling too had its share of encounters, with a leopard crossing the road near the market on April 24, 2023. Later that year, in November, another was seen in Mirik.
Records also show earlier sightings in Mirik in 2020, including one near Division No. 9 adjacent to the Okaiti Tea Garden. In 2022, however, a carcass of a black leopard was recovered near Manebhanjan.
Forest officials believe that the rise in sightings is a sign of conservation success, as the once-elusive black leopard is slowly becoming a thriving presence in the forests of North Bengal.
Also read: Torrential rain disrupts Kolkata ahead of Durga Puja, 7 dead
Follow us
