Kozhikode: The Forest department has fixed a trap at Mantharathur in Maniyur to catch the unidentified animal which has killed a dozen cows within a short span. Though gram panchayat authorities are running from pillar to post to nab the animal, there is no concrete evidence about the identity of the creature. People say that it might by fox. Samples from Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Pookod had confirmed that the death of cows was due to rabies infection.
On Monday, the forest officials from Thamarasserry had visited the spot and fixed a trap with bait in it. “We cannot say anything about the nature of the animal as there is no pugmarks or excreta of the animal. Most of the cows were bitten on face which hints at a rabies-affected fox. But a fox will come and bite in the daytime also which has not happened here,” said Forest beat officer N.K Ibrahim.
Meanwhile, the dairy farmers have demanded immediate compensation for their cattle’s death. According to sources, none of the cows were insured which meant there is meager scope for damages. The only provision is to give an amount under natural calamity fund but which would be one fourth of the actual cost. “Damages for a insured cow and non-insured, comes under separate fund. There is lot of paper work to be done also,” said Shahabath Joona, the ward member of Maniyur gram panchayat.
If the animal does not fall in the trap, the next step is to install CCTVs in and around the spot.
