A large Indian Civet was yesterday caught at Ramna Park in the city by morning walkers who captured the rare animal after chasing it into the lake in the park.

The globally vulnerable and locally endangered animal was then shackled and the different officials informed of the matter.

The animal meanwhile injured itself while trying to free itself from the shackle. When a team from The Daily Star team reached the place, the animal with its magnificent black and FROM PAGE 16

gray coat was lying down and appeared too weak to move.

Prof Anwarul Islam of Zoology Department of DU who is also a representative of Bangladesh Wildlife Trust collected the animal in the evening.

Later, under the guidance of the forest department, the wild civet was released at the Bhawal National Park at night. Assistant Conservator of Forest (wildlife circle) Hossain Mohammad Nishad accompanied the team to the forest.

When the animal was released, it did not move at first but slowly emerged from the cage it had been carried in and walked away into the darkness of the forest.

Prof Anwar told The Daily Star, "It is surprising how our city's ecosystem supported this animal."

He said that greater awareness is needed to save the country's precious nature.

A few days ago, another civet -- now being presumed to be the partner of the cat caught yesterday -- was captured at the same park.

Its fate is however not unknown.

"A large Indian Civet is a very rare animal for Bangladesh,” said Dr Reza Khan, a wildlife expert, "We generally see small and palm civets in the wild here, not the large Indian civet.”

Dr Reza lauded the rescue operation.