In a quiet corner of the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC) resides Ganesh, a remarkable leopard with an extraordinary journey. His story reflects his incredible resilience and the enduring during friendship he has formed with his fellow resident and enclosure mate, Vitthal.
Ganesh, a young and energetic leopard at the age of three, was brought to MLRC in 2011 from Dolhara village in the Nashik district, Nashik Forest Division, where he had become entangled in a distressing human-wildlife conflict situation. After venturing into a nearby village, Ganesh fell victim to a hostile mob’s brutal attack that was provoked by fear. The forest department promptly responded to control the situation, but by that time, Ganesh’s condition had deteriorated significantly. He was therefore swiftly transported to MLRC for intensive care.
Ganesh had sustained critical injuries. Most of these centred around his eyes, and after two weeks of intensive treatment, it became evident that the young leopard would never regain his sight. His left eye had been severely infected, necessitating immediate surgical removal to prevent further spread and potential health complications. Additionally, he developed a cataract in his right eye, severely compromising his vision. With a permanent disability and reduced chances of survival in the wild, the decision was made to provide Ganesh with long-term specialised care at the centre.
Transitioning from a life in the wild, where he could freely explore his world through sights and sounds, to one with a permanent loss of his vision, was a challenging adjustment for Ganesh. However, his willingness to defy the limitations of his blindness defines his present persona. Today, he is often observed leaping and playing on the logs and platforms in his forested enclosure, enthusiastically interacting with various enrichment devices. Regardless of the season, Ganesh can frequently be found leisurely lying down on the second-level platforms, which happen to be his favourite spots, basking in the soothing warmth of the sun. The presence of Vitthal also played a crucial role in helping Ganesh adapt to his new surroundings more quickly.
Like Ganesh, Vitthal too was a young leopard who had fallen victim to a situation that led to a debilitating wound and a drastic loss. Caught in a primitive poacher’s trap, the relentless grip of the hunting device tightened further with each of Vitthal’s desperate attempts to free himself, resulting in the loss of his paw. Again, like Ganesh, the lack of a paw did not diminish Vitthal’s vitality. He showcased the exceptional adaptability of leopards, mastering his climbing skills as he adjusted to life at the centre.
Leopards are generally known to be solitary animals, which is why the profound and heartwarming bond between Ganesh and Vitthal at MLRC makes for a delightful surprise for the entire staff! Ganesh and Vitthal have become inseparable companions, sharing not only an enclosure but also a deep, unspoken understanding known only to them. Despite their contrasting personalities—Ganesh being quieter and calmer, while Vitthal is more playful and active—their days are brimming with joyful interactions, mutual grooming sessions, and mock-wrestling matches, where Ganesh often emerges as the victor.
Now at 15 years of age, Ganesh receives specialised geriatric care, with his dedicated team of caregivers at the centre placing his health as the highest priority. This includes the addition of dietary supplements of fatty acids, as well as those to support his liver and kidneys to maintain his health during his old age. The team also keeps a vigilant watch on his overall well-being that includes the upkeep of his enclosure and providing specially tailored enrichment devices. Routine health checkups and analyses of blood and faecal samples are conducted for all leopards, and treatments are administered when necessary. Medications to address any issue are discreetly hidden within their food for easy consumption.
The enclosure of Ganesh and Vitthal is thoughtfully designed to offer the two a sense of security and freedom, taking their physical condition into consideration. Their field includes a day enclosure that is connected to the den area by a tunnel. Despite his blindness, Ganesh adeptly navigates his space, relying heavily on his acute sense of smell and hearing. To facilitate this, his caregivers design new enrichments based on olfactory sensory stimulation, guiding him through the enclosure and honing his natural hunting skills.
Ganesh’s story is a testament to the stunning determination of animals to counter unexpected adversities in order to survive and flourish. At MLRC, Ganesh has discovered a safe and nurturing environment where he can enjoy a life of tranquillity and good health. If you wish to contribute to Ganesh’s ongoing journey, you can make a monthly donation or sponsor his long-term intensive care and treatment. Your support makes a significant difference in the lives of animals like Ganesh.
