It so happened that panic ensued in Athkona village in Uttar Pradesh’s Pilibhit district as an adult tiger strayed into a residence, which triggered a flurry of activity to safely rescue the majestic animal.
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Reports add that the forest officials successfully rescued the tigress, and it is currently under the observation of veterinary doctors within the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve.
The incident unfolded in Athkona village, situated approximately 20 km from the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve forest. The tiger, reported to be injured, sought refuge on a wall and attracted widespread attention, with videos capturing the unusual sight, which was circulated widely on social media platforms.
As news of the tiger's presence spread, people from neighbouring areas gathered to witness the majestic sight. Forest department officials arrived at the village around 5 AM upon receiving information about the incident. They swiftly placed a net around the wall and initiated efforts to capture the tigress.
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In the shared video, locals can be seen standing mere metres away from the tigress. Some climbed onto the roofs of houses adjacent to the Gurudwara to catch a glimpse, while others observed from behind a protective net.
Speaking to the media, Naveen Khandelwal, Deputy Director of Pilibhit Tiger Reserve, stated, “We have rescued the tigress that was spotted in Atkona village. It is under observation by veterinary doctors in the Pilibhit Tiger Reserve. It is a young female and is approximately 2-3 years old.”
Khandelwal added that the tigress was first localised in the village and was brought out from the village on Tuesday morning (between 10 am and 11 am) after being tranquilised.