Mudhol Hounds Chandra and Kala help the staff of the forest department during the drive in Shikaripur Taluk. | Photo Credit: Sathish GT
Four -year -old Chandra and three -year -old Kala play an important role in the State Forest Chandrakala, known for the cultivation of sandalwood (album Sandalum) in Shikaripura Taluk from the district of Shivamogg.
Mudholkot, brought from a dog research and information center in the Bagalkot district, helps the forest department to guard forest products in front of poachers and other illegal activities.
Named in the forest
The employees named Chandra and Kala to match the forest name. They are under the care of Beepapp and Guruth forest observer. Dogs respond to signals and orders given by their carer. They are also friendly with other employees in the department. They were trained to detect any unusual activity that employees could be missing in dense forests.
“A few days ago, a group of people tried to crop sandalwood. Due to the early reaction of employees, poachers fled from the place. Employees arrived on the scene with hounds and cleaned the liqueur left.
Fast and Wild
The State Forest Chandrakala, the dry deciduous forest extended by 3,169 hectares (7 832 acres), is rich in a variety of vegetation. It is known for the cultivation of sandalwood. Several spots of the forest area are so dense that it is difficult for human beings to enter. “The very presence of Mudhol Hounds adds a special strength authorized by the responsibility of the forest guard. Dogs feel any suspicious activity, smells the presence of a foreign element and runs quickly. This helps the staff in a large way,” Mr. Hirath said.
Eaters take care of two dogs. They have separate shelters, besides the Forest Watcher Beepappa residence, in Suugihalli in Shikaripur Taluk. These are rice, eggs, milk, chicken and meat. “They consult with veterinarians about vaccination and treatment whenever necessary,” the officer said.
Replicable model
Officers and employees feel that the very presence of Mudholské hounds in the woods discourages poachers. In addition to Shikaripur, the department also has a chase in a row of Shialakoppa. “The leading officers who visited the Chandrakal Les have recently appreciated the role played by hounds in forest protection. A similar experiment could be introduced in other areas,” added Mr. Hirath.
Published – September 2025 14:05
