In yet another important observation that came to light due to radio-collaring, the leopard, which was collared in Junnar Forest Division (JFD) and released in JFD, went to Thane district by descending the Western Ghats. Current information shows that the male leopard has returned and is utilising forested areas of JFD. Mid-day was the first to report how the leopard had walked from Junnar to Ulhasnagar.

Talking mid-day Biologist Dr Bilal Habib from Wildlife Institute of India (WII) said, “The male leopard, which was collared in Junnar Forest Division (JFD) and released in JFD, went to Thane district by descending the Western Ghats. Current information shows that the male leopard has returned by ascending Western ghats and is utilising forested areas of JFD.” It may be noted that the leopard has moved approximately 180 km, from the release date-till date (excluding the home range).