Hyderabad: The Telangana Forest Department has cleared doubts over animal footprints found near Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Shamshabad, saying they do not belong to a leopard.
The footprints had sparked concern among nearby residents after reports suggested that a leopard might have entered the area. Forest officials visited the location and carried out a detailed inspection.
After examining the tracks, officials said the footprints do not match those of a leopard. They believe the marks were most likely left by a hyena or a large stray dog.
The department also confirmed that no evidence of leopard movement was found during the inspection. Officials said there were no fresh signs, camera trap images, or other indications that a leopard was present near the airport.
The Forest Department appealed to the public not to believe or share unconfirmed reports on social media, as such rumours can create unnecessary fear.
Officials added that while leopard sightings have been reported in the Shamshabad region in the past, there is currently no confirmed threat near RGIA. The department will continue to monitor the area and has advised people to inform forest authorities if they notice any suspicious wildlife activity.
