Persistent demand for wildlife-derived products perpetuates international trafficking and the exploitation of legitimate globalized transport networks. The annual movement of millions of shipping cargo containers, of which few are inspected due to resource constraints, facilitates the smuggling of large quantities of wildlife contraband. Rapid, noninvasive screening tools are essential for border control agencies to effectively detect and intercept wildlife trafficking attempts, though such tools are currently limited. Detection dog programs could be highly effective in this context; however, their capacity to screen large volumes of cargo without disrupting port operations remains a challenge. We explored the feasibility of pairing an air extraction device, which samples air from sealed containers, with canine detection to improve screening measures. To evaluate this method, we used pelts from adult specimens of the African lion (Panthera leo), cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus), leopard (Panthera pardus), snow leopard (Panthera uncia), and tiger (Panthera tigris) concealed in containers to simulate smuggling scenarios. On average across the container configurations trialed, the detection dog achieved high diagnostic sensitivity (97.6%, 95% CI 95.1-100.0) and specificity (84.8%, 95% CI 79.1-90.6). Detection accuracy was not significantly influenced by airflow conditions (extraction only vs. mixed-mode ventilation) or pelt arrangement within the containers. These findings highlight the potential of this approach in enhancing the detection of concealed wildlife products. However, the air extraction protocol must be validated under real-world operational conditions to confirm its practicability. Through the integration of extraction-based air sampling into existing screening frameworks, this approach could offer a scalable, noninvasive strategy to strengthen wildlife trafficking detection.

Local culture plays an important role in maintaining ecosystem balance and environmental sustainability. This research aims to identify the local culture of the people of Kampung Bulakan that contribute to the preservation of the Gunung Tukung Gede Nature Reserve. The research method uses a qualitative approach through the ethnographic method, which is by studying human behavior, such as the customs and habits of the community in a certain place. This method is carried out through in-depth interviews with community leaders and local residents, as well as observations of the surrounding environment to gain an understanding from the perspective of the local community. The results of the study showed four main forms of local culture, namely the existence of the Tiger Monument, the prohibition of breaking tree branches with hands, the prohibition of activities outside the house after 22.00, and the tradition of stirring. This practice functions to prevent vegetation damage, preserve 167 types of flora with an average density of 310 trees per hectare, and maintain the habitat of the Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas). In conclusion, the local culture of Kampung Bulakan is an effective and relevant community-based conservation strategy to continue to be preserved.

Understanding how carnivores coexist is central to ecological theory and conservation. Coexistence among sympatric species arises through niche partitioning across spatial, temporal, and trophic dimensions, yet these mechanisms remain poorly explored in Central African forests where leopards (Panthera pardus) and African golden cats (Caracal aurata) act as dominant and subordinate carnivores. Using camera trap data and molecular scat analyses from two sites in northern Congo, we provided the first robust leopard density estimates for the region (i.e., semideciduous forests in Central Africa) and assessed coexistence mechanisms between the two felids across spatial, temporal, and trophic axes. Spatially explicit capture-recapture models revealed comparable leopard densities across sites (5-6 individuals/100 km2), exceeding the regional average for Central and East Africa. Spatiotemporal occupancy models indicated spatial and temporal overlap, with no evidence of predictive or reactive temporal avoidance, though fine-scale co-occurrence declined near linear forest features (i.e., main rivers and roads) where both species' marginal occupancy was highest. Conversely, dietary analyses showed trophic segregation: leopards consumed medium- to large-sized ungulates (>20 kg), whereas golden cats relied on smaller prey (≤5 kg), identifying trophic partitioning as the main axis facilitating coexistence in this prey-rich system. Maintaining prey diversity and minimizing disturbance are key to sustaining both species and their coexistence mechanisms. Such multidimensional approaches are essential to understand intraguild interactions and anticipate community shifts under increasing pressure.

The Persian leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor) is a keystone and endangered species in Iran, facing significant threats due to climate change, habitat degradation, and declining prey availability. This study aims to identify suitable habitats for the Persian leopard in Fars Province, located in southern Iran, and to assess the potential impacts of climate change on its future distribution. Habitat suitability modeling was conducted using MaxEnt software, incorporating a range of environmental variables, including topographic, climatic, land use/land cover, and anthropogenic factors. Additionally, to enhance model accuracy, the current and projected distributions of key prey species, such as wild goats and sheep, were incorporated. According to the results, approximately 12.53% of the total area of Fars Province (equivalent to 15,381.86 km2) is currently classified as suitable habitat for the Persian leopard. To predict the effects of climate change by the year 2070, two general circulation models (MRI-ESM2-0 and BCC-CSM2-MR) were applied under the SSP245 and SSP585 climate scenarios. The results indicate that climate change is likely to cause considerable shifts in habitat suitability, with an estimated loss of 23.46 to 39.81% of suitable habitats in Fars Province by 2070. These findings highlight the urgent need to revise current conservation and management strategies, emphasizing the identification and protection of critical habitats in the face of anticipated climate impacts.

Conflict between humans and wildlife is a major problem for global wildlife conservation. Conflicts between humans and leopards are common throughout their global range. In Bhimsen Rural Municipality, Gorkha district, Nepal, this study was conducted during 2020-2021 to evaluate livestock depredation by common leopards (Panthera pardus), its causes, and locally implemented mitigation measures. A questionnaire survey was used to triangulate the data from livestock owners' compensation claims submitted to the Division Forest Office (DFO) Gorkha and the Manaslu Conservation Area Office, Manaslu Gorkha (n=113). Goats accounted for the majority of the 91 animals that were killed (mean = 82.5, 91%), followed by cattle (mean = 5, 5.5%) and buffaloes (mean = 3, 3.3%). With the highest monthly losses in December (mean = 15.0) and January (mean = 13.5), depredation peaked in the afternoon (12–5 PM, 33.9%) and late at night (12–5 AM, 20.15%). The conversion of crop land into forest (24.8%), an increase in leopard populations (22.1%), and a decrease in wild prey (20.4%) were the primary apparent causes of the majority of the incidents (58%), which happened within 100 meters of forest edges. Predator-proof corrals (23%) and active guarding (19.5%) were local mitigation measures. The distance from the forest and the incidence of cattle depredation were inversely correlated. The respondents' attitudes toward leopard conservation were favorable. Based on these results, the study suggests improving local conflict-resolution skills and bolstering livestock protection close to forests.

Background/Objectives The leopard (Panthera pardus), an apex predator listed in CITES Appendix I and classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, is undergoing severe population declines driven by habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal trade. Rapid and reliable species and individual identification is critical for conservation and forensic applications, particularly when analyzing highly processed or degraded seized wildlife products, where morphological identification is often impossible. We aimed to develop and validate a robust multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay combined with a short tandem repeat (STR) system for the species-specific detection and individual identification of P. pardus. Methods The qPCR assay (Ppar Qplex) was designed to target a mitochondrial Cytochrome b (Cyt b) fragment for species confirmation, a nuclear marker (PLP) for general Feliformia detection and quantification, and an artificial internal positive control (IPC) to monitor PCR inhibition. The assay's performance was validated for robustness, specificity, sensitivity, repeatability, and reproducibility, utilizing DNA extracted from 30 P. pardus individuals (hair and feces) and tested against 18 related Feliformia species and two outgroups. Individual identification was achieved using a set of 18 STR loci and a sex determination system adapted from previously published Panthera panels. Results Validation demonstrated high specificity for the Ppar Qplex: mitochondrial amplification occurred exclusively in P. pardus samples. The nuclear marker consistently amplified across all 18 tested Feliformia species but not the outgroups. The assay showed high analytical sensitivity, successfully detecting DNA at concentrations as low as 1 pg/µL, with consistent results confirmed across different sample types, replicates, and independent users. Furthermore, the STR multiplex successfully generated 30 unique individual profiles using the 18 polymorphic loci and the sex determination system. Conclusions The combined qPCR assay and STR system provide a fast, sensitive, and highly specific molecular framework for rapid leopard detection, quantification, and individual identification from a wide range of sample types. These tools strengthen forensic capacity to combat wildlife crime and provide critical data to support evidence-based conservation management of P. pardus. P. pardus, an apex predator listed in CITES Appendix I and classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, is undergoing severe population declines driven by habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal trade. Rapid and reliable identification of seized specimens is therefore critical for conservation and forensic applications, mainly when products are highly processed. We developed and validated a multiplex quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) assay targeting the mitochondrial gene Cytochrome b (Cyt b) for species-specific detection. The assay was tested on verified leopard individuals and validated across 18 Feliformia and two outgroup species (Homo sapiens, Canis lupus familiaris). Analytical performance was assessed through robustness, specificity, sensitivity, repeatability, and reproducibility. Mitochondrial amplification occurred exclusively in leopard samples, while nuclear markers amplified consistently across Feliformia but not in outgroup species. The assay's limit of DNA detection is 1 pg/µL and produces consistent results across replicates, tested types of samples (hair, feces), and independent users, with internal controls confirming the absence of inhibition. In addition, we present the results of successful individual identification using the set of 18 STR loci and the sex determination system. The developed qPCR and STR systems provide a fast, sensitive, and specific solution for leopard detection and quantification, reinforcing forensic efforts against wildlife crime and supporting conservation of P. pardus.

This study investigates the extent, patterns, and socio-economic impacts of human-wildlife conflict (HWC) in and around the Valmiki Tiger Reserve (VTR), India, through household surveys conducted across 92 villages (n = 428). Results reveal that 94.85% of respondents reported experiencing wildlife-induced challenges, with agriculture (95.32%) being the primary livelihood, often supplemented by livestock rearing. Livestock depredation was reported by 74.14% of households, with leopards (Panthera pardus) and tigers (Panthera tigris) responsible for most cattle and buffalo losses, while wolves (Canis lupus) and wild dogs (Cuon alpinus) primarily targeted goats and poultry. Depredation incidents peaked in winter, followed by the monsoon. Proximity to the reserve significantly influenced perceptions of conflict severity (Mann-Whitney U = 515.34, p = 0.016), with 69.46% viewing HWC as a severe threat. While mitigation strategies such as livestock enclosures, guard dogs, and active guarding are common, they remain insufficient to prevent losses. Incidents of direct human injury were rare (2.46%), indicating that HWC in VTR is predominantly economic in nature. The findings emphasize the urgent need for adaptive conflict mitigation strategies that address both predator conservation and community livelihoods.

Human–carnivore conflict (HCC) is a major conservation and livelihood challenge in the Indian Himalayas. In Himachal Pradesh, leopards (Panthera pardus) and black bears (Ursus thibetanus) are widespread, but research has mostly focused on protected areas, leaving human-dominated landscapes understudied. This study investigates HCC in Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, between January 2014 and August 2022, with emphasis on livestock depredation, human casualties, and spatio-temporal trends. Conflict records were compiled from four divisional forest offices (N=193) and supplemented with semi-structured interviews (N=86) to assess species involved, type of conflict, and compensation status. Results revealed that leopards were the primary cause of livestock depredation, targeting goats (57.42%) and sheep (26.45%), while black bears were more often involved in direct human encounters. The Nurpur Forest Division reported the highest number of cases (N=72) with 421 livestock deaths followed by Palampur (N=54), Dehra (N=51), and Dharamshala (N=24). Seasonal analysis showed conflict peaks in the rainy (N=59) and summer (N=58) seasons. Leopard depredation was highest in summer and rainy months, while black bear incidents peaked in autumn. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant upward trend in leopard attacks over the study period (R²=0.74, p=0.0059). The findings highlight the growing intensity of HCC outside protected areas and underscore the need for mitigation strategies, including predator-proof livestock enclosures, awareness programs, and timely compensation to reduce retaliatory attitudes and promote coexistence.

The Gunung Botol Resort is a conservation area in West Java that is crucial for the protection of key wildlife such as the Javan leopard (Panthera pardus melas Cuvier, 1809). The presence of the Javan leopard plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. Data on its potential is essential for efforts to maintain the sustainability of its population in the ecosystem. This study aims to determine the presence of Javan leopard prey at the Gunung Botol Resort in the TNGHS. This study was conducted using camera traps. Analysis of the obtained photographic data was carried out using the Jim Sanderson application. The results of the study produced 133 images, there were 8 types of Javan leopard prey animals that were successfully caught by Camera traps, namely forest rats (Rattus sp) 27 images, barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) 25 images, wild boar (Sus scrofa) 19 images, linsang (Prionodon linsang) 17 images, jungle cats (Prionaliurus bengalensis) 16 images, squirrels (Tupaia javanica) 16 images, skunk teludu (Mydaus javanica) 10 images and Javan barking quail (Arborophila javanica) 3 images. These results indicate the availability of diverse natural food for Javan leopards as top predators functioning as umbrella species. This finding is important to support ecological-based conservation strategies, especially in maintaining the stability of top predator populations through sustainable habitat management and food chains.

ABSTRACTTiger (Panthera tigris) and leopard (Panthera pardus) are two congener species and wherever they live together are found to compete for space and habitat. The study on habitat suitability and overlap between tigers and leopards in the Banke‐Bardia Complex, Nepal, aims to assess the ecological preferences and spatial distribution patterns of these big cat species within the given landscape. For the study the Banke‐Bardia Complex was considered as it is one of the priority tiger conservation units. We have gathered the GPS location of tigers and leopards from the camera trap survey. Maximum Entropy (Maxent) is software used to model the suitable habitat of species by using geo‐referenced occurrence data and environmental variables. We used area under the receiver‐operator curve (AUC) as the threshold‐independent method. We found a fair AUC for the model of leopard (0.674+/−0.043) and tiger (0.690+/− 0.012) habitat suitability model. We found 854.15 km2 and 867.21 km2 of suitable habitat for common leopard and tiger respectively throughout the study area. We identified 388.16 km2 of overlapping habitat between the species, which constituted 45.60% of the habitat of leopard and 44.75% of the habitat of tiger. Most of the overlapping habitat was located in the southern part of Banke National Park and western parts of Bardia National Park. The findings from this study highlight the need for inclusive conservation strategies extending beyond core protected areas. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts and promoting sustainable land‐use practices can mitigate human‐wildlife conflicts and support broader ecological integrity.

ABSTRACT Lions ( Panthera leo ) are apex predators with a well‐documented influence on ecological dynamics, yet their potential role as bone‐accumulating agents remains poorly understood and often debated. Previous taphonomic studies have largely attributed bone accumulations in African savannah ecosystems to other carnivores, such as spotted hyenas ( Crocuta crocuta ) and leopards ( Panthera pardus ), due to their known prey‐transporting and bone‐modifying behaviors. However, some research has suggested that under certain ecological conditions, lions may also contribute to the formation of bone assemblages, thereby challenging long‐standing assumptions about faunal assemblage formation processes. That is the case with Olduvai Carnivore Site (OCS), a modern wildebeest bone assemblage from Olduvai Gorge attributed to nomadic lions. Although the lion accumulation hypothesis proposed for OCS was supported by coherent and internally consistent lines of taphonomic and ecological evidence, several variables in the assemblage suggest that its formation may have been more complex than initially recognized. In this study, we conducted a re‐study of this assemblage to reassess the accumulating agents involved, applying artificial intelligence (AI) techniques—specifically deep learning algorithms trained on high‐resolution images—to analyze and classify tooth marks across the collection. By comparing these AI‐derived patterns with reference datasets from known carnivore‐modified assemblages, we were able to evaluate the likelihood of lion agency and identify potential post‐depositional modifications by other agents. We combined this approach with metric analysis of tooth pits. Felids and hyenids generate divergent tooth pit sizes on dense bone from long bone midshafts. Combining both approaches, we showed—contrary to previous analyses—that hyenid was the predominant agency in bone modification. The results demonstrate the potential of AI‐driven taphonomic analysis to refine interpretations of bone surface modifications (BSM) and carnivore behavior, with significant implications for interpreting Plio‐Pleistocene archaeological and paleontological sites.

ABSTRACTIn areas where forests and human‐dominated landscapes intersect, humans and wildlife compete or collide in their efforts to utilize natural resources. The Kathmandu Valley hosts a suitable habitat for several wildlife species, including the leopard (Panthera pardus), which inhabits the surrounding forest patches. Over the past few years, there has been an increase in human–leopard interactions that have raised concern for the increase in human–leopard conflicts. To better understand and visualize the conflict within the valley, this study modeled human–leopard conflict using leopard conflict data and environmental variables influencing those conflicts. A human–leopard conflict hotspot map was generated using the MaxEnt modeling approach, identifying the high‐risk zones primarily near forest edges and expanding settlements. The analysis highlights key factors, such as canopy cover, the human influence index, slope, and proximity to water bodies, influencing human–leopard conflict. Additionally, ordinal logistic regression was used to understand people's attitudes towards leopards, which remained largely positive despite rising conflicts between humans and leopards. The results showed an encouraging sign for governmental bodies seeking to mitigate conflicts through targeted, individual‐level awareness programs in the near future.

Small protected areas can contribute significantly to large carnivore conservation when managed effectively. The present study examines the population status, activity patterns, and food habits of leopards (Panthera pardus fusca) in Vansda National Park, along with the landscape composition surrounding this protected area in South Gujarat, India. To achieve our objectives, we deployed 15 camera traps across Vansda and collected scat samples along established trails and roads from January to December 2022. We identified eight unique leopards, exhibiting a predominantly nocturnal activity pattern, with the highest temporal overlap observed with chital (Axis axis, 0.52) and domestic goat (Capra hircus, 0.56). Dietary analysis revealed that wild prey contributed 69% and domestic prey 31% of total biomass consumption. Landscape composition analysis indicated that approximately 50% of the surrounding 1 and 8 km buffers consisted of forest habitat, suggesting a favourable habitat matrix. However, human disturbances, particularly agricultural expansion and livestock grazing, pose a significant threat to leopard persistence. Our findings underscore the importance of maintaining connectivity between forest patches and managing human-leopard interactions to ensure long-term conservation success in small protected areas.

Lead (Pb) exposure is a global concern because of its harmful effects on the environment, animals, and humans. Although research on Pb poisoning in humans and avian species is extensive, similar literature on mammalian carnivores is limited. Only two reports of suspected Pb poisoning in captive cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) exist, and none in wild cheetahs. We quantified cumulative life exposure to Pb in 62 cheetahs (33 males, 29 females) and 11 (unknown sex) leopards (Panthera pardus). Cheetahs were grouped according to time spent in captivity: wild (>10% of life in the wild) and captive (10-100% of life in captivity); all leopards were wild. Bone Pb concentration (BLC) was measured in tibias to assess the effects of time in captivity, age, and sex on Pb exposure. Lead was detected in all cheetah and leopard tibias. Mean BLC was 1.11±1.92 mg/kg for all cheetahs, with a significantly higher mean in captive (1.57±2.25 mg/kg) versus wild (0.27±0.39 mg/kg) cheetahs. Time in captivity had a significant effect on BLC, with BLC increasing with years spent in human care. Wild leopards had a higher BLC than wild cheetahs, with a mean BLC of 1.02±1.56 mg/kg. Higher BLC in captive than wild cheetahs was attributed to Pb exposure from the ammunition used to shoot ungulates for their diet. Increased exposure in wild leopards might be attributable to opportunistic scavenging, a behavior not typically seen in wild cheetahs. This study highlights the need for non-Pb ammunition options in support of conservation, animal welfare, and ultimately human health.

The first biomolecular evidence of leopards (Panthera pardus, Linnaeus, 1758) from the Roman era reveals the participation of African big cats in provincial amphitheatres

BackgroundMelanism in wild felids represents an intriguing evolutionary trait, potentially advantageous under specific ecological conditions, but the genetic basis of this phenotype remains unclear in many populations. Here, we explored melanism in the Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) by integrating whole-genome sequencing with evolutionary and structural analyses.ResultsWe identified a single-point mutation (p.C117F) in the agouti signalling protein (ASIP) gene. Evolutionary analyses indicated signs of positive selection acting on the ASIP locus, while codon usage patterns revealed no impairment in translational efficiency. Computational predictions (SIFT, PROVEAN) classified the mutation as functionally damaging. Structural modelling combined with molecular dynamics simulations revealed significant disruptions in the stability, helical content, and receptor-binding affinity of the mutated ASIP protein compared to the wild type. The mutation notably diminished ASIP’s inhibitory interaction with melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), which is crucial for melanogenesis regulation. Machine-learning models differentiated between mutant and wild-type protein structures by analysing molecular features.ConclusionsOur results support the conclusion that the p.C117F mutation significantly contributes to melanism in Indian leopards, shedding new light on this trait’s molecular underpinnings and evolutionary history. This study identifies the p.C117F mutation as a key driver of melanism in leopards of the Indian subcontinent, providing mechanistic insight into the evolution of complex phenotypes in non-model species.Supplementary InformationThe online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12864-025-12227-z.

The study examines biodiversity of Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, a crucial ecological region near Bhubaneswar in Odisha, India. Extending over the Khordha and Cuttack districts, the sanctuary area measures approximately 193 square Kilometers and constitutes a region of the Eastern Ghats topography. It is mostly a dry deciduous forest community with Sal (Shorea robusta) and mixed species as the dominant one, offering a natural environment to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The goal of this research work is to record and examine the species composition, diversity, its distribution in sanctuary and determine the ecological processes and also conservation issues influencing in distinctive habitat. Field surveys were carried out in various zones of the sanctuary with conventional ecological techniques like transect walks, quadrat sampling, and camera trapping. The research documented a diversified richness of plant species consisting of medicinal plants, shrubs, grasses, and climbers supporting the livelihood of various animal species. The faunal diversity comprises large mammals like the Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus), leopard (Panthera pardus), spotted deer (Axis axis), wild boar (Sus scrofa), and a number of species of primates and small mammals. The sanctuary also has a diverse range of birdlife, reptiles, amphibians, insects, adding to its ecological richness and productivity. The study recognizes some of the major threats to biodiversity, mostly emanating from anthropogenic influences like deforestation, poaching, encroachment, cattle grazing, and urbanization because of the close location of Bhubaneswar city. Human-wildlife conflict, particularly with elephants, and habitat fragmentation have turned out to be serious problems for the ecological integrity of the sanctuary. Water body degradation and riparian vegetation loss have also affected the habitat quality for aquatic and semi-aquatic organisms. The research also emphasizes to intensive conservation efforts to protect Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary's biodiversity. The proposed steps are restoration of habitat through afforestation, intensification of anti-poaching patrols, establishment of wildlife corridors, and augmentation of water resources. In addition, community participation and environmental education are necessary to ensure sustainable cohabitation between people and wildlife. In conclusion, the current study offers useful baseline data regarding the status of biodiversity at Chandaka Wildlife Sanctuary, which can provide insights for future conservation research, policy, and ecosystem management. Conservation of this sanctuary is important, not only for regional biodiversity maintenance but also for ecological balance sustenance as well as environmental resilience upholding in Odisha.

ABSTRACT Aim The leopard ( Panthera pardus ) is a generalist species inhabiting Africa and Asia, reflecting dispersal from an ancestral African range. When dispersal events occur, they can entail ecological differentiation and local adaptation. This study compares the bioclimatic niches of African and Asian leopard subspecies, to investigate whether they retained their ancestral ecology during dispersal from Africa, or adapted to novel conditions and shifted niche. Location Africa and Eurasia. Methods We assembled a database of leopard presences from public resources and associated them with bioclimatic variables to identify which are relevant in predicting the species' distribution. We constructed a species distribution model and compared distributions predicted from models based on presences from all subspecies, versus models built only using African leopard records. Finally, we used multivariate analysis to visualise the niche occupied by each subspecies in climate space, and calculated overlaps to assess ecological differentiation. Results The species distribution model trained only on African occurrences predicted most of the Asian range, but not the extension into more extreme environments such as the colder areas inhabited by several Northern Asian subspecies, and seasonal and rugged areas inhabited by Persian leopards. Niche overlaps suggest that Asian subspecies mostly retained their ancestral niche, but in some cases started to use climatic conditions that are not found in Africa. The Persian leopard is the only subspecies for which this expansion represents most of its current niche. Main Conclusions Despite some expansion into high altitude, seasonal environments in Northern Asian populations, the results suggest generally limited adaptation to novel climates after dispersal from Africa and little ecological differentiation among Asian leopard populations. This finding complements recent genetic studies that suggest limited genetic differentiation among Asian leopards. Resolving the relationships between taxonomy and biological differentiation is important due to its relevance for the conservation of the species.

ABSTRACT Increasing livestock depredation by recovering large carnivore populations undermines local support for long‐term conservation. Past studies on livestock depredation have primarily focused on biophysical predictors, often overlooking the role of household‐level husbandry and protection practices in shaping depredation risk. We used multivariate logistic regression models on a database of 1180 households (including 597 livestock depredation events) from the tropical lowlands of Nepal to identify predictors of livestock depredation by tigers ( Panthera tigris tigris ) and leopards ( Panthera pardus ). In line with previous research, models reported significant biophysical and livestock husbandry predictors of depredation risk, which are intrinsic geospatial and livelihood variables and unlikely to respond to interventions. In addition, we found novel evidence that the low‐cost protection strategies of fixed night lighting and domestic dog ownership significantly lowered the odds of small livestock depredation. With careful implementation, these two mitigation measures have the potential to reduce livestock depredation risk and contribute to human–wildlife coexistence.

ABSTRACTGlobally, large carnivores face significant threats and have lost substantial portions of their historical range. The Brown Hyaena (Parahyaena brunnea), one of four Hyaenidae species, has a global population estimated at fewer than 10,000 individuals and the species is of conservation concern. Its population size in Mozambique remains unknown. Zinave National Park (Zinave) in Mozambique is undergoing recovery following the impacts of a prolonged civil war, which severely depleted its wildlife populations. Recently, however, the park has seen the return of large carnivores, both naturally (Spotted Hyaena; Crocuta crocuta, Leopard; Panthera pardus, and Lion; Panthera leo) and reintroduced (Spotted Hyaena and Leopard) inside the sanctuary. During September 2023 to September 2024, through the establishment of a permanent camera trap grid and the periodic placement of camera traps on carcasses to monitor scavenger activity, the first images of Brown Hyaenas were recorded in Zinave. This provides evidence of their presence in an area not previously considered within the species extant range. This study highlights the importance of long‐term biodiversity monitoring, both inside and outside protected areas, using complementary methods such as active search efforts and camera trapping. These approaches are critical for documenting rare and cryptic species, species range shifts and generating essential data to guide effective conservation strategies.