Leopard attacks caretaker at Bannerghatta Zoo, 48-year-old injured during cage cleaning

A leopard attacked a staff member at the rehabilitation centre inside Bannerghatta Biological Park while cages were being cleaned, leaving the animal handler injured and hospitalised.

In a shocking incident, a leopard attacked a staff member at the Bannerghatta Biological Park, leaving him injured during routine maintenance work. The incident occurred at the rehabilitation centre inside the zoo premises, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Bannerghatta Police Station.

The injured staff member has been identified as 48-year-old Shantappa, an animal caretaker working at the facility. According to officials, the incident took place when zoo staff were engaged in cleaning a leopard enclosure.

To carry out the cleaning safely, the leopard was shifted from its original cage to a neighbouring enclosure. While the cleaning process was underway, the leopard suddenly pushed its paw through the iron mesh barrier and attacked Shantappa, scratching him with its claws.

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The sudden assault resulted in injuries to Shantappa’s cheek and neck, causing bleeding and shock. Fellow staff members immediately rushed to his aid and arranged for medical assistance.

Shantappa was shifted to a private hospital, where he is currently undergoing treatment. Hospital sources said his condition is stable, and he is being closely monitored.

The incident comes under the Bannerghatta Police Station limits, and police officials have been informed. Preliminary inquiries are underway to understand the exact sequence of events and ensure compliance with safety standards.