In forest-adjacent areas like Pilibhit district in Uttar Pradesh, encounters with tigers, leopards, bears, and jackals are not uncommon. Knowing how to respond in such situations can make all the difference. (Local18)
If you come across a tiger or leopard, do not run. Instead, raise your voice, make loud noises, and create a commotion. Avoid direct eye contact and slowly step back while trying to appear larger in size. (Local18)
For those residing near forests where bears are found, avoid travelling alone and make noise while walking to alert animals of your presence. If a bear charges towards you, lift your arms and shout loudly. Should it attack, do not attempt to fight, remain still in that position until it retreats. (Local18)
Jackals are generally timid creatures, but if they are hungry, threatened, or infected with rabies, they can become aggressive. They usually attack in packs. If you find yourself confronted by one, make loud noises and seek cover behind an object. Pick up a stick or stone to defend yourself if necessary. (Local18)
Pilibhit district is home to an extensive forest covering about 730 square kilometres, rich in biodiversity and home to a variety of wildlife species. Hundreds of villages situated on the forest’s edge remain vulnerable to wild animal incursions. If you spot any wild animals wandering near your village or fields, promptly inform the forest department. (Local18)
These safety tips are based on conventional wisdom and general awareness. News18 does not claim scientific authority and advises readers to follow official forest department guidelines in case of wildlife encounters.
