Villagers in some parts, including Chinnamaikenpalayam and Vadukathampatty, in the district observe this practiceas they believe the Wanga foxes bring good fortune besides copious rains to their region. After the event, the foxes are released back into to the forests. In an attempt to prevent harassment of the animal, the forest department here has launched a massive awareness campaign against the practice and warned the villagers that those causing harm to the foxes could face punishment.

“We have also issued advertisements across the district asking people not to engage in such a sport. We have warned them that it is a punishable offence and the foxes come under the Wildlife (Protection) Act”, a forest official said. During the coming days, the campaign would be intensified across the district, the official added. Another forest official said the wanga foxes are a rare breed and found in dense forest areas abutting the district.

Some people catch and use them in the jallikattu-type sport, while others also keep them confined in their houses on the Kaanum Pongal occasion. Locals visit the houses, which keep the wanga foxes, to have a glimpse of the animal with the belief that seeing them would bring good fortune, 

he added.