Leopard–Human Conflict Led Casualties and Conservation Awareness Campaign in Shivalik Hills of Northern India
2017
Kumar, Pradeep | Chandel, Sangeeta | Kumar, Vijay | Sankhyan, Varun
Leopard attacks on human frequently occur in the vicinity of human settlements. People have very little knowledge about the behavior of leopard resulting in conflict which leads finally to retaliation. Present study was conducted to investigate the frequency of leopard attacks on humans in and around Shivalik hills of Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh during 2001–2013. Data of the present study was collected from the forest department records, field visits conducted and feedback from stakeholders. During this study a total of 123 leopards were found dead, while eight injured leopards were captured and sent to rescue centre at Goplapur, Himachal Pradesh. Of the 123 dead leopards 47.2 % (58/123) were killed by unknown persons, 8.1 % (10/123) were declared man eater hence killed by shooters, 44.7 % (55/123) died of natural death from diseases or other natural causes. In contrast the mortality of human beings has been reported to be 4.42 % (5/118). In addition the present study was also made to know the most critical areas of conflicts and causes based on data of various forest ranges of Hamirpur district. Capacity building programmes were conducted to impart training to the staff and locals of Hamirpur district. Awareness programmes were organized to sensitize peoples in highly sensitive areas.
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