Have leopards been found in Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary?

Yes, camera traps from the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) confirmed the presence of at least two leopards in Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary.

What did the Wildlife Institute of India survey reveal about Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary?

The WII survey significantly increased the recorded species count, with 117 bird species and 14 mammal species, and confirmed the presence of leopards.

Are there invasive species in Sukhna and Dhanas lakes?

Yes, the WII identified invasive Red-eared slider turtles in Sukhna and Dhanas lakes, which pose a threat to native wildlife.

Home / Environment / Leopards Roam Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary: New Survey Reveals!

Leopards Roam Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary: New Survey Reveals!

30 Nov

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Summary

Leopards confirmed in Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary with four camera trap images.
Species count increased significantly from 67 to 117 bird species.
Invasive Red-eared slider turtles identified as a threat in local lakes.

Leopards Roam Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary: New Survey Reveals!

Camera traps have confirmed the presence of leopards in Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary, capturing at least four images of the elusive big cat. This finding is part of a broader rapid assessment of biodiversity conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) over eight days.

The survey revealed a significant increase in species diversity, with bird species rising from 67 to 117 and mammal species from 11 to 14 compared to a 2021 survey. Healthy numbers of sambar, a primary prey for leopards, were also noted, suggesting a stable ecosystem.

Invasive Red-eared slider turtles were flagged as a concern in Sukhna and Dhanas lakes, posing a threat to native species. The WII's comprehensive report, expected by February 2026, will offer deeper insights into Chandigarh's natural heritage.