Forest department says 'tiger' scare in Gazipur village was a fishing cat

Residents of Mekarpara village in Gazipur's Sreepur upazila experienced alarm after social media posts widely reported a "tiger" roaming a residential area. The forest department, however, has clarified that the animal is a fishing cat, not a tiger, and poses little threat.

“

video footage indicates the animal is a fishing cat.

Md Tarek Rahman, acting officer of Gazipur Safari Park and assistant conservator of forests, stated that video footage confirms the animal is a fishing cat. These cats are known to inhabit the Bhawal forest and sometimes venture into nearby villages in search of food, according to Rahman.

“

fishing cats have long inhabited the Bhawal forest and occasionally wander into nearby villages in search of food.

Rumors of a tiger-like animal began circulating on Thursday afternoon, with several Facebook users sharing posts that fueled public concern. Habibur Rahman, a Mekarpara resident, reported seeing the animal near a fish farm at night, noting its relatively large size and spotted coat led him to believe it was a tiger.

“

fishing cats are generally not dangerous to humans and urged residents not to panic or disturb the animal.

Tarek Rahman advised residents not to panic, emphasizing that fishing cats are generally not dangerous to humans. He requested that people inform the forest department if they spot the animal again and stressed that it should remain in its natural habitat.

“

people inform the forest department if it is spotted again, adding that it should remain in its natural habitat rather than be taken to Gazipur Safari Park.