Changing a leopard's spots or how people spot leopards? Managing human – leopard interactions in urban India

Abstract

Human–wildlife interactions are an everyday reality in India. Managing any potential human–wildlife conflict is one of the most important tasks of the Indian government. As urban construction grows exponentially, many cities have come closer to forested areas and increased sightings of wildlife. Mumbai is located close to Sanjay Gandhi National Park, a 120 square kilometre wildlife zone which is home to approximately 40 leopards. Over the years, there have been sporadic incidents of human – leopard conflicts and a few humans have died in fatal leopard attacks. This case study follows a hypothetical Chief Wildlife Warden in Mumbai as a decision maker who must make a decision regarding leopard sightings after a spate of leopard attacks in the city earlier in the year. By providing detailed information and data regarding leopard population management as well as the cultural milieu and political context of Mumbai, the case study provides information required to advise the decision maker on their options.