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Qamar, Q.Z.; Dar, N.I.; Ali, U.; Minhas, R.A.; Ayub, J.; Anwar, M.
Human-leopard conflict: an emerging issue of common leopard conservation in Machiara National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan
2010  Pakistan Journal of Wildlife (1): 50-45

Human-wildlife conflict is an emerging issue in current era which has intensified with the passage of time. Many wildlife species have become threatened due to this conflict, especially the large carnivores. Human - leopard conflict is common in various parts of their distribution range around the world. Present study was conducted to assess livestock depredation by common leopard in Machiara National Park (MNP) from January, to December, 2011. Structured and semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect data with the help of MNP field staff. Statistical analysis showed that there was a significant difference (p<0.05) in livestock depredation in different seasons of the year, highest depredation was recorded in summer season that gradually decreased toward autumn due to the availability of natural prey species. A significant difference (p< 0.05) was observed between goats and other livestock species showing that goats were the preferred livestock prey species. Most of the depredation occurred during night as compared to day time and a significant difference (p= 0.048) was noted between night and day time depredations. Villagers suffered a high economic loss (PKR = 2.693m) in terms of estimated market price of killed domestic animals. Factors contributing to this conflict include: increasing human population and dependence on natural resources, habitat destruction and population decline of leopard's natural prey species, poor protection practices of livestock and poverty of local people.

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