Carcass of a black panther was found lying in Chullikadu Forest Range in the Nilgiris district, today.

Villagers of Mullithen, near Kothagiri, about 50 km from here noticed the body early today and alerted the Forest Department, police said.

On information, DFO Shankar and Ranger Mustapha, along with some officials rushed to the spot and took possession of the body, they said.

The black panther, a rare species in this area, seems to be three to four years old in appearance and the reason for the death will be known after inspection by the Forest Department veterinarian who has to perform post mortem, police said.