Status and ecology of leopard (Panthera pardus) in relation to prey abundance, land use patterns and conflict with human in Garhwal Himalaya.

Abstract

The problem of human-leopard conflict has recently been increased in the Indian Himalayan region due to change in land-use patterns. Leopard-human conflict as predation on human and livestock has been quite frequent in 16 districts of Uttarakhand state and Pauri Garhwal district is worst affected. Recent increase in such incidences has been reported from this region. The main goal of this research was to provide a base line information on status of leopard-human conflicts in Pauri Garhwal district and response of leopard in relation to prey abundance, land use patterns and human dimension in human dominated landscape. Present study was undertaken in Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand to (i) determine distribution and current status of leopard in Pauri Garhwal (ii) to determine extent and severity of leopard-human conflict problems in relation to its ecological requirements, land use patterns and human life style. (iii) to study food habits in relation to prey abundance (wild and domestic) and habitat characteristics and (iv) to determine factor responsible for leopard-man conflict. A survey was carried from February 2000 to October 2001 in 15 administrative blocks of Pauri Garhwal district. Information was collected on distribution and extent and severity of leopard-human conflict.