Leopard Found in University Restroom – A Thrilling Rescue Without Tranquiliser

Late Monday evening, staff and students at Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University in Tirupati were stunned when a sleek, spotted leopard slipped into one of the campus toilets. The animal, apparently drawn by the scent of rodents, managed to wedge itself behind a row of stalls, causing a ripple of panic across the institute.

Rather than resorting to a tranquiliser—a method that can be risky in confined spaces—the university’s wildlife rescue team opted for a hands‑on approach. Led by Dr. Ramesh Kumar, a senior veterinarian, the team coordinated with forest department officials and carefully coaxed the leopard into a large, reinforced net.

"We had to act fast, but also gently," Dr. Kumar recalled. "The leopard was already agitated, and using a sedative could have backfired in such a cramped area. We decided to move slowly, keep the animal calm, and avoid any sudden noises. In the end, it worked."

After the net was securely placed, a few volunteers, equipped with thick gloves and protective gear, guided the animal out of the toilet and onto a waiting transport cage. The leopard, appearing unharmed, was later taken to the Tirupati wildlife rescue centre, where veterinarians will conduct a health check before releasing it back into the forest.

The incident sparked a flurry of social‑media posts, with many users praising the quick thinking of the rescue team. Local wildlife activist Maya Rao noted, "This shows that with proper training and a calm mindset, we can handle human‑wildlife encounters responsibly, without harming the animal or people involved."

Authorities have now urged the campus community to remain vigilant and report any unusual animal sightings immediately. The university is also reviewing its waste‑management practices to ensure that stray animals are not attracted to the premises again.