Guwahati: A rare sighting of a melanistic black panther at Manas National Park has captivated wildlife enthusiasts after the Chief Minister’s Office, Assam, shared images of the elusive animal on X, describing it as the “Ghost Rider at Manas.”
In its post, the Chief Minister’s Office said, “The Ghost Rider at Manas!… where the elusive melanistic black panther quietly steals the show. A rare glimpse into the wild that reminds us why Manas remains one of India’s most extraordinary forests.”
The melanistic black panther, often called the “ghost of the forest” due to its dark coat and elusive nature, is rarely seen in the wild. The sighting has been widely appreciated by wildlife lovers, photographers and conservationists.
The post also highlighted the rich biodiversity of Manas National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to several endangered species, including the Bengal tiger, Indian rhinoceros, Asian elephant and golden langur.
Reiterating the Assam government’s commitment to wildlife conservation, the Chief Minister’s Office said the rare sighting reflects the ecological richness of Manas National Park and reinforces the importance of protecting its unique habitats. The government also emphasised its continued efforts to conserve the state’s biodiversity while promoting sustainable eco-tourism.
The rare appearance of the black panther has further strengthened Manas National Park’s reputation as one of India’s premier wildlife destinations and a vital centre for biodiversity conservation.
