In a small village that lies on the fringes of a dense forest in Maharashtra, a young leopard was met with a fateful incident. Four-year-old Vitthal had fallen victim to a snare trap that forever altered the course of his life. His right hind paw was caught in the cruel grip of a primitive trap laid out by poachers. The relentless clasp of this hunting device tightened with every desperate attempt the leopard made to free himself, inflicting excruciating pain upon young Vitthal. News of his dire condition reached Wildlife SOS, and our team rushed to his aid. Time was of the essence, and Vitthal was in need of urgent attention.
The cruel device had torn through Vitthal’s flesh, resulting in infection and blood loss. Vitthal sadly lost his paw, but he did not lose his vigour. Though this traumatic incident left him mentally stressed, Vitthal gradually began to respond to the team’s unwavering dedication and care, and this brought about the first glimmers of hope. In the weeks that followed his arrival at the Manikdoh Leopard Rescue Centre (MLRC), Vitthal began to showcase his expert climbing skills. Today, this majestic feline leaps around double-storeyed platforms in his field, and explores his enclosure with exuberance!
Leopards are known for their solitary nature, but contrary to the norm, Vitthal has formed a heartwarming bond with a fellow resident of MLRC, Ganesh. The two leopards have become inseparable companions, sharing not only an enclosure but also a deep, unspoken understanding. Their days are filled with playful interactions, mutual grooming, and even mock-wrestling matches, in which Ganesh often is the victor.
The staff at the MLRC have tailored provisions for Vitthal to suit his unique needs. They have built specialised climbing structures, keeping in mind his physical limitations. These platforms are built closer to the ground and are equipped with aids to assist him in ascending, allowing Vitthal to engage in exercise and explore his natural instincts. Our team has also laid out food-based enrichments on these platforms to stimulate the feline to exercise his limbs. Vitthal absolutely adores each of his platforms and spends his afternoons lounging on top of one. In case Ganesh mounts up on the same platform, Vitthal is quick to nudge him off!
It has been 14 years since Vitthal first arrived at the MLRC. The 18-year-old is now one of the oldest leopards under the care of Wildlife SOS. Leopards enter the latter phase of their lives as they cross the age of 12, although this may vary from species to species. Senior leopards encounter dental problems, joint issues, and display a marked change in their behaviour and energy levels. Wildlife SOS’ commitment to the well-being of its geriatric residents extends beyond basic care.
Regular health checkups and specialised dietary supplements ensure that our elderly Vitthal receives the attention he requires. Our veterinarians analyse his faecal samples every three months to address any gastrointestinal issues or parasites promptly.
Under geriatric care treatment, calcium supplements are added to the meals of leopards to help control the onset of joint problems, maintain core strength and build stronger immunity. As the felines get older, the food served to them is often softened with warm water to make it easily chewable. Vitthal undergoes regular dental checkups to keep track of root problems, broken teeth and the accumulation of plaque and tartar. He is also administered kidney and liver supplements to promote his overall health.
Illegal trade of fur and other body parts of leopards has threatened its existence in the wild. In India, their survival is under risk due to rampant habitat loss and the rise of human-wildlife conflict as well. Due to shrinking forests and declining prey populations, leopards often stray into human settlements in search for food and shelter. Territorial and adaptive in nature, leopards who come in contact with humans often get caught in retaliatory killings.
Vitthal’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the negative impacts of human pressures on the wild, and how animals possess an incredible level of resilience. This leopard’s journey from the brink of despair to a life filled with friendship and purpose reflects the wholehearted dedication of the team at the MLRC.
As we celebrate Vitthal as our Leopard Of The Month, we are reminded of the responsibility we all share in preserving our natural world. Stories of strength, like Vitthal’s, continue to inspire us to do more for wildlife in distress. You can support and contribute to the care of leopards like Vitthal and Ganesh by becoming a monthly donor.
