You’re halfway through your morning tea when something moves near the gate — a jackal, maybe even a leopard, walking by like it belongs. Not a safari but a regular day in the neighbourhood. There is panic, chaos and fear.

Scenes like this are becoming more common across Indian cities. From Pune and Bengaluru to Gurugram and Guwahati, wild animals are straying into urban areas as we’re getting closer to their habitats in the name of development and modernisation. Shrinking green cover, expanding construction, and easy access to food waste are drawing wildlife into human spaces.

When that happens, your response matters because not every wildlife encounter ends with a heartwarming rescue.

In a recent incident near the Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve (RVTR), a leopard reportedly wandered out of the forest and into nearby human habitation. The animal, clearly injured and posing no threat, became the centre of a growing crowd.

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Instead of calling authorities or ensuring the leopard was left undisturbed, people gathered to watch, film, and snap photos. Some even egged others on, turning the moment into a public spectacle. The leopard, visibly in pain, didn’t attack or try to flee — a heartbreaking sign of its critical condition.

A calm, informed citizen can prevent panic, protect lives, both human and animal, and even support successful rescue. This guide walks you through what........

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