Shivam Chauhan
This project aims to address a critical question of the Anthropocene: the increasing negative interactions between humans and carnivores. With rapid habitat loss, expanding human settlements, and changing land use patterns, conflicts between leopards and humans have intensified. This study seeks to identify the key drivers of these interactions and analyse the behavioural responses of both humans and leopards in shared landscapes. Understanding the ecological and social dynamics of these encounters is crucial for effective mitigation strategies.
A leopard trying to hide itself within a scrub forest. ©Shivam Chauhan.
Our study also emphasises assessing the apex predator interactions, particularly how tigers influence leopard behaviour and space use. In predator hierarchies, dominant species often exert competitive pressure on subordinate species, leading to displacement or altered behaviour. By examining these interactions, we can gain insights into how leopards navigate landscapes where both human and tiger presence shape their movements and survival strategies.
Beyond ecological interactions, this study also focuses on the human dimension of leopard presence in human-dominated areas. In Bijnor district, human-leopard conflict has become a significant challenge, with 27 recorded human fatalities in the past two years. In response, the Forest Department has intensified capture and removal efforts. However, the effectiveness of such removal remains uncertain. Therefore, we seek to develop scientific solutions through active community engagement. Understanding local attitudes towards leopards, cultural perceptions, and tolerance levels is essential for designing conservation strategies that balance human safety with wildlife conservation.