In a distressing discovery, a partially decomposed leopard carcass was found by the roadside at Paalwada, Usgao, with its paws missing, raising suspicions of an attempt by unidentified poachers to hunt the wild cat for its skin and claws.

The incident is currently under investigation by Ponda Range Forest Officer (RFO) Deepak Tandel. There are also indications that the leopard may have been struck by a vehicle while traversing the main road.

Locals reportedly spotted the carcass on Friday morning, but it wasn’t immediately reported to the Forest Department. The department was informed later, and after conducting a panchanama, the body was sent to Bondla for autopsy.