Why is a leopard appearing at the Pune airport?

The leopard may be seeking resources like food or shelter, potentially drawn to the area due to reduced human activity and flight operations at the airport.

What measures are being taken to handle the leopard at Pune airport?

Officials are using 15 trap cameras and three trap cages to monitor and safely capture the leopard for relocation.

How does climate change affect wildlife like the leopard near Pune?

A warming planet disrupts habitats, forcing animals to move into new territories, which can lead to increased encounters with human areas.

Home / Environment / Leopard Roams Pune Airport, Evades Capture

Leopard Roams Pune Airport, Evades Capture

15 Jan

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Summary

A leopard has been frequently sighted at a Pune airport in 2025.
Reduced flights may have made the airport a comfortable spot.
Officials are using cameras and cages to relocate the leopard.

Leopard Roams Pune Airport, Evades Capture

A leopard has been frequently spotted around an airport in Pune, India, in 2025, proving difficult to capture. Officials suspect that a significant reduction in flights, caused by airline staff shortages, has made the area a comfortable refuge for the big cat. The leopard reportedly uses stormwater drains to access and patrol the airport grounds.

The animal's presence is concerning due to the inherent risks of wildlife encounters in human-populated areas. Experts suggest such behavior often stems from animals seeking food, shelter, or resources disrupted by environmental changes. A warming planet is forcing wildlife to alter their ranges, increasing the potential for dangerous interactions.

To address the situation, authorities have installed 15 trap cameras and three cages. They express optimism about capturing the leopard soon, noting its relaxed state due to diminished airport activity. The incident also highlights the broader impact of climate change on habitats and the need for sustainable travel choices to mitigate environmental damage.