Feral dogs may be culled to protect wildlife in Sikkim forests

Sunday, June 7, 2009

GANGTOK: Dogs, which once lived near army and paramilitary camps in Sikkim and survived on leftovers, have turned feral, killing and devouring wild animals, forcing authorities to consider the option of culling them.

A number of wild animals like Red Panda, Musk Deer, Ghorals and even migratory birds have been killed and devoured by the dogs in the past couple of months, Forest officials said. In the latest instance, a pack of dogs and jackals entered an enclosure at the Himalayan Zoological Park at Bulbuley in East Sikkim on May 31 and killed and ate an adult Red Panda.

The Chief Wildlife Warden NT Bhutia said that a report has been sought from the zoo authorities. Describing the reports of attacks by dogs on the wild animals as a serious matter, he said that if needed they may have to be culled to protect wildlife in forests.

Among measures for strengthening the security of the zoo and wildlife sanctuaries from the dogs, Bhutia said additional funds have been give to the zoo authorities to strengthen fencing. - PTI

http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/blnus/27071720.htm