Ahmedabad: Leopards in South Gujarat are increasingly preying on livestock, causing significant economic losses for local farmers. A comprehensive study titled “Ecology of Leopard in South Gujarat” has revealed startling data: between 2009 and 2022, leopards killed 9,545 livestock, including 5,258 domestic goats, 4,042 domestic cows, 170 domestic buffaloes and 75 domestic horses. Farmers reliant on these animals for their livelihood are struggling under the weight of these losses.
The study, conducted by researchers Mohmadnavaz Dahya, Alkesh Shah, Aadil Kazi and Rohit Chaudhry from Navsari, highlights that goats — due to their small size and vulnerability — are the most frequent targets, followed by cows and buffaloes. Most attacks occur at night or during grazing when livestock are left unattended. In 2016-17 alone, there were 327 attacks on goats and 225 attacks on cows, all calves.
The research stated that of the 327 attacks on goats, 208 attacks were where the goats were tied in the open, 51 were while grazing, and another 68 were inside the cattle sheds. In the case of cows, 124 attacks were on calves tied in the open, and 101 were while grazing.
Using camera traps in Vansda National Park, researchers observed 47 leopard sightings over a year. The data confirmed that leopards are predominantly nocturnal hunters, a behaviour that helps them avoid competing with diurnal prey like wild pigs, and other predators.
The study raises concerns about the precarious conservation status of leopards in South Gujarat. As an apex predator, the leopard plays an essential role in regulating prey populations and maintaining ecosystem balance. However, with their habitat shrinking due to human encroachment and ongoing conflicts with local farmers, the species is facing an uncertain future in the region.
The study recommended that it was important to secure livestock enclosures, especially at night. “Farmers should build stronger livestock enclosures, implement predator-proofing techniques and use guardian dogs to mitigate conflicts,” said Dahya.
