The movement of wild animals, including elephants, bears and leopards, has increased in Coonoor and surrounding areas of the Nilgiris district, causing concern among residents and plantation workers.
Officials said prolonged heat and drought conditions in the plains have led to scarcity of food and water, forcing wild animals to migrate towards cooler regions in search of resources.
In recent days, a herd of 11 wild elephants has been spotted in the Coonoor region, particularly around the Katteri area. A female elephant, along with its calf, reportedly strayed from the herd and is currently roaming within the Glendale tea estate.
Following this, the Forest Department has issued a warning to workers in the estate, advising them to avoid entering the area and not to venture close to the elephants.
Authorities said they are closely monitoring the movement of the elephant and its calf and are taking steps to safely guide them back to the herd. The increased presence of wildlife in human habitations has heightened fear among local residents.
