Karkala: The Forest Department rescued a one-year-old leopard cub that fell into a well near Arantabettu Darkas in Nitte village with the help of locals.

The leopard cub, reportedly searching for food, had strayed near a house on Saturday night. It spotted chickens near the house and, in its haste to catch them, accidentally fell into an open well.

The incident came to light on Sunday morning when locals noticed the leopard in the well and alerted the Forest Department. A rescue operation was carried out using a cage and net, successfully pulling the leopard out safely.

The cub was examined by Taluk Veterinary Officer Vasudev, who confirmed it was in good health. The rescue operation involved ACF P. Sridhar, RFO Prabhakar Kulal, DRFO Hukrappa Gowda, other forest staff, and local residents.