Strayed Himalayan Black Bear rescued from Army Camp, released safely into wild at Lungthung

A Himalayan Black Bear that had wandered into the Army Supply Company premises at Lungthung was safely rescued and released into its natural habitat in a joint effort by the Pangolakha (North) and Fambhonglho (West) field teams of the East Wildlife Division. The operation highlighted the importance of timely intervention to reduce man-animal conflict while protecting both human life and wildlife.

The bear, which had been sighted several times over the past week inside the Army compound, raised concerns among personnel stationed there. In response to repeated reports, the forest department had placed a trap cage in a strategic location within the premises. Their patient planning paid off in the early hours of August 30, when the animal was successfully tranquillized and captured without incident.

Officials confirmed that the rescue was conducted with utmost care to ensure that the bear remained unharmed throughout the process. Once secured, the animal was swiftly transported and released the same day back into the wild at Lungthung, a habitat considered safe and suitable for its species.

According to forest officials, such rescues are crucial in regions like Sikkim, where expanding human activity and natural habitats often overlap. The swift and coordinated response not only prevented potential harm to the Army personnel but also safeguarded the endangered Himalayan Black Bear, a species native to the Himalayan region and vital to the ecosystem.