Guarding the flock: Kashmiri woman keeps leopard at bay

Leapord attacks Maria Ejaz Ahmad's flock of sheep in a field near Palri village in Neelum Valley of AJK

MUZAFFARABAD: A woman was seriously injured after she challenged a leopard that had attacked her flock of sheep in a field near Palri village in the Neelum Valley of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on Saturday.

According to the police Maria Ejaz Ahmad was tending her flock when a leopard tried to pounce on one of the sheep. Instead of running away in panic, Maria stood her ground and challenged the big cat.

The villagers, hearing cries for help, ran and chased away the leopard, while Maria, who was still standing firm, collapsed. The wild cat had left deep scars on her head, arms and leg.

She is currently recuperating in District Head Quarters Hospital Athmuqam.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 3^rd, 2015.