Forest officials near Basannagutta, Kosigi mandal in Andhra Pradesh's Kurnool district sprang into action on Sunday after a distressed leopard was found in obvious pain. Locals and farmers reported hearing agonized growls before spotting the animal, prompting an immediate response from wildlife personnel .

The rescue team, led by Adoni forest range officer P Tejaswi, safely tranquilized the leopard before transporting it to the Adoni range office for urgent medical attention. Veterinarians discovered that a bone lodged in the leopard's throat was causing severe discomfort, likely obstructing its airway . Currently, doctors are working to remove the obstruction and administer necessary first aid and supportive care.

Officials confirmed that the feline remains under close observation. Once fully treated, it will be released back into its natural habitat. This rescue underscores the critical role of forest departments in managing human-wildlife interactions and providing emergency care in remote areas.

The prompt collaboration between villagers, field officers, and veterinarians turned what could have been a fatal incident into a hopeful conservation success.