Locals Foil Poaching Bid in Dargakona, Jackal Rescued Amid Wildlife Crime Alarms

A golden jackal (Canis aureus) was safely rescued and released into its natural habitat on Thursday afternoon after getting trapped in a snare allegedly set up by a local resident of the Dargakona area in Cachar. The trap, meant to catch small Indian civet cats preying on poultry, inadvertently caught the wild jackal, prompting concerns among villagers.

According to local sources, the resident had installed traps in response to repeated attacks on his ducks and hens by civet cats at night. These wild cats kill poultry and small livestock making it impossible for locals to rear them peacefully, alleged a local of the village.

The situation took a disturbing turn when two unidentified individuals from a neighbouring village allegedly arrived with bags, seemingly with the intention to take away the trapped jackal. Alarmed, the locals confronted the duo and prevented them from taking the animal, suspecting that the jackal would be harmed or killed for its flesh. The individuals were asked to leave the area immediately.

Subsequently, the villagers informed the Barak Valley Wildlife Division, whose team arrived at the spot and rescued the jackal. The animal was later released into a safe forested area.

Wildlife conservationist and research scholar Bishal Sonar confirmed to Barak Bulletin, “The rescue was handled efficiently by the department. However, the incident reveals deeper issues. Locals have complained that despite warnings, animals like dogs, monkeys, and jackals continue to be killed for their flesh. These are serious and ongoing wildlife crimes that need urgent intervention.”

The golden jackal is listed as “Least Concern” by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) but remains protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 in India.

Locals are now urging stronger enforcement against illegal trapping and poaching and more awareness about the importance of conserving wildlife.