Trekkers please beware: Leopard and fires ahead

Ever since the lockdown was relaxed in May, trekking activities around the city have slowly resumed. However, with recent leopard sightings and forest fires, trekkers are being warned about making summer plans.
In the last few days,
extremely careful during the summer months.”
Basadi Betta is preferred by families, due to low elevation and moderate trek. Forest fires can be very tricky and fatal if one is not careful
– T Rajesh, a regular trekker
On Thursday night, medicinal plants near Basadi Betta were engulfed in a forest fire. “Basadi Betta is preferred by families, due to low elevation and moderate trek. Forest fires can be very tricky and fatal if one is not careful,” said T Rajesh, a regular trekker.
After leopard sightings, camera traps were set up to photograph leopard movement on Begur Road
In Heggunda, another popular trekking spot, leopard sightings have been reported. Additionally, the locals of the area have also issued warnings to trekkers, aking them to stay away and not venture into unexplored areas.
Dev Balaji Setty, an expert trekker said, “Apart from the forest fire season coming up, trekker should also be mindful of wildlife in the area. Leopard sightings have been in news and one must avoid entering grasslands and campfires. During summers, there is a shortage of water and leopards are seen leaving their areas in search of water. To avoid human-animal conflict, one must be very careful.”