Population estimation and human-wildlife conflict assessment

• The Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) has released a comprehensive report on the population estimation and human-wildlife conflict assessment of common leopards and Asiatic black bears in Himachal Pradesh.

Key Findings

• Population Density:
  • 1,114 leopards (2 per 100 sq. km) and 835 bears (1.5 per 100 sq. km).
  • Leopards inhabit mid-to-low altitudes, bears in higher elevations.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict:
  • 15% of the state is conflict-free, but conflict zones are increasing.
  • Low (18.5%), medium (7.83%), and high (4.45%) conflict areas identified.
• Survey Method: Used Spatially Explicit Capture-Recapture (SECR) with cameras and microphones.
• Una District Insights
  • 30-34 leopards, no bears.
  • Leopards found in Ramgarh, Kutlehar, and Bharwain forest ranges.
  • Prey includes sambar, barking deer, and blue bull calves.