Bahraich wolf attack: Despite drone searches, infrared cameras and night vigils 'killer' wolves evade forest officials

Massive search operation in Uttar Pradesh's Bahraich district to capture wolves causing havoc, with drones aiding in tracking.

A massive search operation is currently underway in Uttar Pradesh’s Bahraich district, as wildlife authorities and forest officials scramble to capture a pack of wolves that have been wreaking havoc. With four wolves already successfully caught, the operation is now focused on tracking down the remaining members of the pack.

General Manager of the Forest Department Sanjay Pathak said that drones are also being used in the search operation. “We are tracking them [wolves]. No untoward incident has been reported. Drones are also being used in the search operation,” he said.

According to the officials, Tuesday (September 3, 2024) night passed without any reported incidents of wolf attacks, as the search operation to capture the remaining wolves continued without any positive result.

According to District Forrest Officer (DFO) Bahraich Ajit Pratap Singh, a multi-pronged approach is being employed to capture the wolf. Specifically, thermal drones are being deployed to track the wolf’s movements, while also relying on identifying pugmarks and gathering intelligence from residents. Mr. Singh reported a recent sighting, but said that the wolf managed to escape due to the commotion caused by the villagers.

The DFO further explained that despite efforts, the thermal drones were unable to locate the wolf. He emphasised that visual confirmation from villagers is crucial, but typically, reports come in after evening, when the drone’s camera capabilities are hindered. The infrared camera’s limitations in low light conditions make it difficult to distinguish between a wolf, jackal, or dog. The DFO also questioned the initial assumption that only two wolves were present. He suggested that there might be a possibility of a third wolf, stating that it’s conceivable that there could be three wolves instead of just two. To address this, the team has escalated its efforts, deploying four thermal drones to catch the wolves.

Forest Minister of Uttar Pradesh Government Arun Saxena will also visit Bahraich to monitor the situation today. The Forest Minister will reach Bahraich Circuit House at noon and after that, he will hold a review meeting with senior officials of the Forest Department on the wolf attack in the Collectorate auditorium.

Widespread panic has gripped Bahraich district due to the presence of wolves, prompting a swift response from the forest department team, who arrived in the village upon receiving reports of the wolf’s presence.