Tamil Nadu Forest Dept Steps Up Camera Traps After Fatal Carnivore Attack in Gudalur

The Tamil Nadu Forest Department has intensified surveillance in the forested areas of O'Valley near Gudalur following a suspected carnivore attack that resulted in the death of a 58-year-old man on Saturday evening. Eight camera traps have been deployed so far, with plans to increase the number to 15 in the coming days, according to officials.

The victim, identified as M. Balakrishnan, a resident of the area, had left his home to draw water from a stream located more than a kilometre away. When he did not return, family members grew concerned. His remains were discovered on Sunday, and officials believe he was attacked by a large carnivore, most likely a tiger.

Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Gudalur, P. Devaraj, said that the department is taking all possible steps to identify the animal responsible. "We have placed eight camera traps around the site of the attack, and this number will be increased to 15 over the next few days. Drone cameras have also been used to try and locate the animal, but so far we have not succeeded," he said.

Officials noted that there have been no reports of cattle killings in the immediate area, although instances of smaller livestock, such as goats, being preyed upon have been reported from surrounding regions. These, they said, are most likely the work of leopards.

The location of the incident has led officials to believe that the encounter was accidental. "The victim had walked a considerable distance from his residence towards the stream. It is possible that while he was crouching to draw water, the animal might have mistaken him for prey," said a Forest Department official, who did not wish to be named.

Wildlife movement in the region is common, as the area is heavily forested and forms part of a corridor connecting protected areas in the Nilgiris. This increases the likelihood of such encounters, particularly when people venture into the forest alone.

The DFO stated that any decision on whether the animal should be trapped and relocated would be made only after it is positively identified. "We need to ascertain whether the animal is an older one or if it has injuries that prevent it from hunting its natural prey. Only then will we decide on the course of action," he explained.

Meanwhile, the Forest Department has increased patrolling in the area and urged local residents to remain indoors after dusk to minimise the chances of negative interactions with wildlife. Awareness campaigns are also being conducted to educate people on safety measures.

The incident underscores the ongoing challenge of human-wildlife conflict in the Gudalur region, which has witnessed several such incidents in the past. Conservationists point out that the region's rich biodiversity and forest cover bring humans and animals into close proximity, requiring sustained efforts from both the authorities and the local community to ensure coexistence.

Further updates are expected as the camera trap images are analysed. The Forest Department has appealed to the public not to spread unverified information and to cooperate with officials in their efforts.