The recent research study, published in the journal Global Ecology and Biogeography, has indicated that the leopard population in North India is facing a substantial risk of extinction due to roadkill. The report reveals an 83% increased risk of extinction for the leopard species if current roadkill levels persist – a concern that takes precedence amongst other factors endangering this species.
Key Points of the Study
The research findings highlight that out of four animal species identified as the most vulnerable to extinction in the forthcoming 50 years, the North Indian leopard population is at the highest risk. The leopard is followed by the maned wolf and little spotted cat, both native to Brazil, along with the brown hyena from southern Africa.
Given the 83% increased risk, the study projects the extinction timeline for the North Indian leopard population to be approximately 33 years. Other animal populations that are found to be remarkably vulnerable include the lion-tailed macaque (Macaca silenus) and sloth bear (Melursus ursinus) located in South India.
This research study has raised serious concerns over future road development and mitigation in Sub-Saharan Africa and south-eastern Asia. These regions have been identified as areas where roads substantially contribute to the loss of mammalian biodiversity.
Understanding the Leopards: Traits, Habitat, and Population
Scientifically known as Panthera pardus, the leopard is recognized as the smallest among the Big Cats, which includes Tiger, Lion, Jaguar, Leopard, and Snow Leopard. This nocturnal animal possesses a remarkable ability to adapt to diverse habitats and primarily hunts at night. Its diet mainly comprises smaller species of herbivores like chital, hog deer, and wild boar found within its geographic range.
Interestingly, melanism is a common phenomenon among leopards, causing their entire skin, including spots, to turn black. This melanistic leopard is often inaccurately referred to as a black panther or jaguar and is often mistaken for a different species.
The habitat of leopards spans across a wide range in sub-Saharan Africa, small regions of Western and Central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast and East Asia. The Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) is specifically spread across the Indian subcontinent.
The report ‘Status of Leopards in India, 2018’, recently released by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, noted a 60% increase in the leopard population in India, compared to the 2014 estimates. The figure has increased from nearly 8,000 in 2014 to 12,852. States with the highest leopard counts are Madhya Pradesh (3,421), Karnataka (1,783), and Maharashtra (1,690).
Leopard Conservation: Threats and Actions
Despite its population growth, leopards continue to face various threats to their survival. These include illegal poaching for skin and body parts trade, loss and fragmentation of habitat, and conflicts between humans and leopards.
To conserve and protect this species, leopards have been classified as ‘Vulnerable’ on the IUCN Red List and are listed under Appendix-I of CITES. Furthermore, under the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, leopards are placed under Schedule-I to offer them the highest degree of protection.
