Livestock Depredation Pattern by Common Leopard: A Case Study from Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area

In the Himalayan region of India, conflicts between humans and big cats, particularly common leopards and snow leopards, are an age-old saga. In this study, we used forest department data on compensation to farmers who suffered livestock losses due to leopard attacks in the Great Himalayan National Park Conservation Area to unravel the patterns of livestock depredation, offering a deeper understanding of this enduring and complex human-wildlife dynamic. We found that the intensity of livestock depredation by common leopards varies with the seasons, surging during the pre-monsoon and winter months and spiking during natural calamities. Interestingly, they show a preference for smaller prey over medium and large-sized preys. Yet, amid these seasonal and situational peaks, the overall intensity of livestock depredation by common leopards has been on a decline in recent years. While conflicts in the region appear to be diminishing, it is crucial to reduce villagers' dependence on forests, and alternative livelihood options should be adopted. Both government and non-government organizations can play a pivotal role in mitigating these conflicts and promote harmonious coexistence.