In India’s varied terrain, leopards flourish, from dense forests to rugged landscapes. Archana Jyoti explores the world of these elusive cats, where stealth and adaptability reign supreme
As the first light of dawn filters through the dense canopy of the Indian forest, the landscape comes alive with the symphony of chirping birds and rustling leaves. Among these ancient trees and mist-laden hills, a solitary shadow moves with silent grace. This is the realm of the leopard — India’s elusive and enigmatic big cat, a master of stealth and survival.
In the shimmering dawn of conservation success, the “Status of the Leopard in India (2022)” report illuminates a remarkable resurgence, estimating a thriving population of 13,870 sub-adult and adult leopards spread across tiger range landscapes in 18 states.
Yet, this number, as impressive as it is, captures only a part of the tapestry. The survey omits regions of notable leopard populations — Uttarakhand, the North-East, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Haryana —suggesting the true number of these elusive predators is much higher.
Leopards, the consummate survivors, adapt to an array of landscapes. These majestic cats are not confined to the protected sanctuaries. Only about 35 per cent live within national parks and wildlife reserves. The rest venture into human-dominated areas, their rosette coats a secret among sugarcane fields, tea gardens, ravines, and Prosopis thickets, says HS Singh, member of the National Board of Wildlife (NBWL).
In certain enchanted corners of India, leopards gather in impressive densities, sparking both wonder and conflict. The leopards of India are masters of adaptability, thriving across varied landscapes. The report delineates three major population blocks namely Central India Landscape which encompasses over 8,650 leopards across eight states. This region is a mosaic of dense forests and open fields, adds Singh who was the Gujarat PCCF.
Himalayas-Shivalik Region is home to over 4,600 leopards with an area sprawled over the rugged terrains of Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and the Terai belt of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.
Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot includes Goa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala and it supports about 3,600 leopards.
Remarkably, only about 35 per cent of these felines dwell within the protected confines of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The rest navigate human-dominated landscapes, from sugarcane fields and tea gardens to ravines and Prosopis thickets, showcasing their resilience and adaptability.
In certain regions, the density of leopards is striking, leading to frequent human-leopard interactions and conflicts. These hotspots include the dense Dhanpur forests in Dahod, Jambughoda forest in Godhra, and the sugarcane belt in Mandvi taluka, where leopards roam the fringes of Gir and Girnar forests.
In Maharashtra, Sanjay Gandhi National Park near Mumbai and areas in Nashik, Ahmednagar, and Gunnar districts are villagers’ nightmares as leopards are a common sight. Likewise, in Uttarakhand, Rajaji National Park, and districts like Pauri Garhwal, Teri Garhwal, and Almora, these predators are often seen venturing near human settlements.
If Uttar Pradesh’s dense Katarnighat forests is a refuge for many leopards, within the verdant expanse of Kuno and Panna National Parks in Madhya Pradesh, the sleek feline lords over its domain, a picture of regal repose amid lush greenery.
Amongst the rugged terrain of the Sariska Tiger Reserve and the adjoining woodland near Jaipur in Rajasthan, a significant population of these graceful cats roams, embodying the spirit of resilience amidst harsh landscapes.
In the rich tapestry of the Western Dooars woodlands in West Bengal, the leopard moves with a silent grace, its golden fur blending seamlessly with the verdant foliage.
The rich forests of the Western Dooars frequently host the leopards while in Karnataka’s open forest mosaics of central Karnataka, the predators are encountered regularly.
Tragically, the resurgence of leopards has a complex downside too. As their populations recover, so do the incidences of human-leopard conflicts. Historically, during the early 20th century, leopard attacks claimed 400-410 human lives annually. Post-independence, these numbers fell significantly, only to rise again in recent years.
Annually, over a hundred people are killed, and thousands injured, due to leopard attacks. .
Former PCCF (wildlife) Uttar Pradesh Shailesh Prasad, attributes the human-leopard conflict in India to habitat loss, illegal wildlife trade, lack of awareness, and declining natural prey.
Addressing the growing human-leopard conflicts requires innovative strategies and community engagement. Through effective population management, rapid conflict response, and fostering a deeper understanding of these enigmatic cats, India can ensure that leopards remain a vital part of its natural heritage while safeguarding human lives, each flourishing peacefully in their unique domain. "Habitat restoration through reforestation and the creation of wildlife corridors can provide suitable environments for leopards, reducing their need to enter human settlements. Additionally, consistent public awareness campaigns can sensitize locals about leopard behavior and safe practices, while securing livestock with predator-proof enclosures and guard animals can protect against predation." Prasad, adds Prasad who was director of Dudhwa Tiger Reserve in Uttar Pradesh.
