Twin black leopards captured on camera in Kurseong – a first in Indian wild
In a stunning breakthrough for wildlife conservation, two melanistic leopards were photographed together by a camera trap in the Kurseong forest division of North Bengal. The images, released by the Forest Department of West Bengal, mark the first documented instance of black leopards appearing side‑by‑side in the Indian subcontinent.
Background / Context
Melanism, the genetic condition that gives animals a darker coat, has long fascinated scientists and wildlife enthusiasts alike. While black leopards have been reported in Southeast Asia, sightings in India have been sporadic and usually isolated. The Kurseong region, part of the lower Himalayas, is a biodiversity hotspot that hosts a range of species, from the Himalayan black bear to the endangered snow leopard. The recent discovery underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and the role of technology in unveiling hidden facets of wildlife populations.
According to the Forest Department, over 20 camera traps have been deployed across the Kurseong division to monitor wildlife activity, poaching threats, and habitat changes. The new footage adds a layer of intrigue to the ongoing efforts to protect the region’s fauna.
Key Developments
On 22 January 2026, a camera positioned near a dense thicket captured two black leopards moving in tandem. The image shows the animals in a relaxed stance, with one slightly ahead of the other, suggesting a familial bond. Forest Officer DFO Devesh Pandey confirmed that the pair “appear to be siblings,” and that the team will continue to track them to gather data on their movements, breeding patterns, and potential offspring.
Experts note that the presence of two melanistic leopards in close proximity is statistically rare. Dr. Uma Ramakrishnan, a molecular ecologist at the National Centre for Biological Sciences, explained that melanism requires two copies of a mutation in the ASIP gene, one from each parent. “The probability of both parents carrying the mutation is low, especially in a population with high gene flow,” she said. “Finding two such individuals together suggests a localized increase in the frequency of the mutation, possibly due to reduced genetic diversity or habitat fragmentation.”
In addition to the leopards, the Kurseong forest has recently reported sightings of other melanistic species, including a black barking deer, a black tarantula, and a civet cat with black stripes. These observations hint at a broader pattern of melanism within the region’s wildlife.
- Over 20 camera traps active in Kurseong division
- First documented instance of two black leopards together in India
- Potential link to genetic isolation and habitat fragmentation
- Additional melanistic species observed in the same area
Impact Analysis
For conservationists, the discovery is a double‑edged sword. On one hand, it highlights the genetic uniqueness of the Kurseong population, potentially making it a priority for protection. On the other, it raises concerns about the long‑term viability of a small, isolated gene pool that may be prone to inbreeding and reduced adaptability.
Students and researchers studying wildlife genetics will find the Kurseong case a valuable field study. The data collected from the camera traps can be used to model population dynamics, assess genetic health, and inform management strategies. Moreover, the findings could influence policy decisions regarding forest connectivity and anti‑poaching measures.
For local communities, the presence of black leopards may increase tourism interest, but it also necessitates heightened awareness about human‑wildlife conflict. The Forest Department has urged residents to report any unusual wildlife activity promptly and to adhere to safety guidelines when traversing forested areas.
Expert Insights / Tips
Dr. Ramakrishnan recommends a multi‑pronged approach to safeguard the Kurseong leopards:
- Genetic Monitoring: Collect DNA samples from scat and hair to assess genetic diversity and identify potential inbreeding.
- Habitat Connectivity: Expand wildlife corridors to link Kurseong with adjacent forest blocks, reducing isolation.
- Community Engagement: Educate local villagers on coexistence practices and provide incentives for reporting poaching.
- Technology Integration: Deploy additional camera traps and GPS collars to track movements and habitat use.
For students interested in wildlife biology, the Kurseong case offers a real‑world laboratory. Field trips, data analysis workshops, and collaborations with the Forest Department can provide hands‑on experience in ecological research and conservation planning.
Looking Ahead
The Forest Department plans to intensify monitoring efforts over the next year. A comprehensive genetic study is slated to begin in March 2026, with the aim of publishing a report on the prevalence of melanism in the region’s leopards. If the findings confirm a high frequency of the ASIP mutation, conservationists may need to consider genetic rescue strategies, such as translocating individuals from other populations to increase genetic diversity.
Meanwhile, the Kurseong forest is expected to become a focal point for ecotourism. Responsible tourism initiatives, including guided wildlife walks and educational programs, could generate revenue for local communities while raising awareness about the importance of preserving unique genetic traits.
In the broader context, the discovery underscores the need for robust wildlife monitoring across India’s diverse ecosystems. As climate change and human encroachment continue to alter habitats, understanding genetic variations will be crucial for adaptive management and long‑term species survival.
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