MURREE: A leopard entered a human settlement in the Ausia village and killed nine goats.

The leopard attack spread fear in the area, particularly among schoolgoing children.

On Saturday night, a leopard killed seven goats at the home of Mukaramuddin and two goats belonging to a widow of Asif Mehmood.

The residents discovered the goats killed when they entered the cattleyard.

Locals have previously seen leopards in the village and informed the wildlife department, but no action had been taken.

The climatic conditions of Murree and its adjoining areas are suitable for various kinds of wildlife, and the government has appointed officials in the area to not only look after the condition of the wild animals but also protect local population and tourists from harm.

A few months ago, a leopard cub was found dead in the Kaseri village, while domestic animals have been killed a number of times.

When contacted, Murree Wildlife Officer Amir Niazi said that in a huge area it was not possible for the limited wildlife department staff to protect the entire area.

He said the killing of animals cannot be stopped by wildlife department staff, particularly in such a large area.

Published in Dawn, March 20th, 2017