The Rising Effects of Human-leopard Conflicts in Karnataka: A Review from Media Reports
M. C. Manjunatha *
DBT-Builder Project, JSS-AHER, Sri Shivarathreeshwara Nagara, Mysuru-570 015, India.
Inchara Chamaiah Swamy
Department of Psychology, University of Mysore, Mysuru-570 006, India.
M. C. Prabhavathi
Department of Economics, Govt. First Grade College for Women, Chamarajanagara-571 313, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
The Indian leopards are widely distributed on the Indian subcontinent and is the smallest of the Big Cats known for its ability to adapt in a variety of habitats. A nocturnal animal, the leopard hunts by night and feeds on smaller species of herbivores found in its range. The present study aims to collect media reports on human-leopard conflicts especially in human habitats of Karnataka State. Leopards were constantly in the news/media in Mysuru region and were increasingly coming into conflict situations with tragic results for both humans and the animal. Since 2018, the data showed that 16 people have been killed in different parts of Karnataka state by leopards. Leopards use neck bites to kill 90% of their prey and may drag up to 400 mts of small prey. The districts of Ramanagara, Mandya, Mysuru, Ballari, Tumakuru, Koppala, Kolara, Davangere and Chikkamagaluru were among those affected by leopard attacks and sightings. 65 leopards were captured/rescued and relocated to protected areas during 2019-22 in Mysuru district.
Keywords: Human, leopards, conflicts, Karnataka