Perhilitan Monitoring Presence Of Black Panther In Hulu Dungun Village

DUNGUN, July 15 (Bernama) -- The Terengganu  Wildlife and National Parks Department (Perhilitan) is monitoring the presence of a black panther (melanistic leopard) in Kampung Belimbing, Hulu Dungun.

Its director, Loo Kean Seong, said this follows complaints from villagers who claimed to have seen the wild animal roaming near their homes.

He said his department would carry out monitoring first before deciding on further action, such as setting up a trap.

“I urge villagers not to take matters into their own hands, as it could endanger their safety.

“Anyone who spots the Panther or sees fresh paw prints is encouraged to inform the authorities so swift action can be taken immediately,” he said.

A resident, Tuan Zahari Tuan Lasan, 63, said he was alerted by the loud clucking of his chickens in front of his house on Sunday night.

On checking, he saw a panther devouring one of the chickens.

“The mystery of the missing 20 kilograms of meat from the cooler box I left in front of the house a few days ago has finally been solved.

“I thought someone had stolen it, but it turned out to be a panther. My blood ran cold at the thought of encountering such a dangerous animal,” he said.

He hopes the authorities will act fast to ensure the safety of the 200 residents in the village.

-- BERNAMA