Dietary Resource Selection Pattern of Leopard (Panthera pardus) and its Conservation Implications in Urban Landscapes of Central India

Leopards exhibit adaptability and thrive in human-dominant landscapes by incorporating livestock into their diet. The present study was conducted to assess the prey availability and selection patterns of leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) in two urban landscapes i.e., Indore and Jabalpur, in India. The research aimed to understand the prey population dynamics and evaluate the impact of human activities on leopard behaviour. This study employed transect surveys to estimate prey density and biomass, scat analysis to identify consumed prey species, and analysis of the secondary data from Forest Department local administration for livestock depredation incidents. Prey selection was evaluated using the Jacobs' selectivity index. Results revealed diverse prey preferences, with chital (Axis axis) and domestic dogs (Canis familiaris) being prominent diet components in both study areas. Livestock, particularly cattle, constituted a significant portion of available biomass. This study identified human-leopard negative interaction zones within the study areas prone to conflict. These findings emphasize the need for effective management strategies to mitigate human-leopard negative interactions and promote coexistence. The study contributes valuable insights into the dietary habits and prey dynamics of leopards in urban landscapes, which are crucial for their conservation and management initiatives.