Initial investigations into the death of a black bear found in critically injured condition in Bugermung area of Siren Valley, Mansehra district, have revealed a tragic case of poaching.
The bear had sustained bullet wounds, indicating a deliberate act of cruelty. As per the inquiry conducted by DFO Wildlife Mansehra, it was concluded that the bear was killed because some locals wanted to snatch her two cubs to sell them.
According to Sarmad, the DFO Wildlife Mansehra, it has been established that the bear had two cubs. One of the cubs managed to escape into the forest after the perpetrators fired bullets at the mother bear, but the other unfortunate cub was taken away by the killers. The authorities are now conducting raids to apprehend the three suspects nominated in the case and recover the snatched bear cub from their possession.
The incident came to light on July 19 when a female black bear was discovered in a critically injured state in the Bugermung area. Prompt action was taken by the locals and Wildlife Department officials, who rushed the injured bear to Dhodial Pheasantry for treatment. However, despite their efforts, the bear succumbed to her injuries.
Efforts are underway to locate the escaped bear cub, with teams and locals conducting searches in nearby forest areas. Once the cub is recovered from the clutches of the poachers, it will be shifted to a safe location, possibly Peshawar Zoo, for proper care and upbringing. The authorities are considering the option of hand-feeding the cub if it is still nursing, or releasing it back into the wild if it is grown enough to survive independently.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 26th, 2023.
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