Research article: Athreya, V., Odden, M., Linnell, J. D. C., Krishnaswamy, J., & Karanth, K. U. (2016). A cat among the dogs: leopard Panthera pardus diet in a human-dominated landscape in western Maharashtra, India. Oryx, 50(1), 156–162

Blog author: Aishwarya Laghate

Key Highlights:

  • The study investigated leopard diet and food availability in a rural human-dominated landscape in Akole, Western Maharashtra, India. 
  • Researchers analysed the diet of leopards and estimated prey densities and biomass using scat analysis.
  • From 85 confirmed leopard scats, 87% of the leopard’s prey consisted of domestic animals, and surprisingly, 39% consisted of domestic dogs alone.
  • A few wild species that occurred in leopard scats were rodents, small Indian civets, bonnet macaques, langurs, mongoose and birds.
  • The study concluded that abundance of domestic prey present in human-use areas supports a relatively high density of predators, although this interaction, in years to come can cause human-wildlife conflicts.

 

In the vibrant tapestry of tropical ecosystems, large felids like leopards are typically thought to thrive in wild environments rich in native prey populations. However, research from the Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra, India, reveals a surprising twist in this narrative: leopards in agricultural landscapes are heavily reliant on domestic animals as their primary prey.

Interviews with 77 households provided a clear view of the high density of domestic animals in the area. The data showed that there were approximately 169 adult cattle, 54 calves, 174 goats, 24 dogs, and 61 cats per square kilometer. Researchers conducted an extensive analysis of leopard scats—85 confirmed samples—uncovering that a staggering 87% of the prey biomass consisted of domestic animals. Domestic dogs were particularly noteworthy, making up 39% of the leopard diet. The findings challenge traditional views of predator-prey dynamics by highlighting how human-dominated environments can sustain large carnivores through abundant domestic livestock.

This rich prey base is crucial for leopards, which typically require substantial biomass to sustain their populations. Notably, the standing biomass of dogs and cats alone was sufficient to support a relatively high density of these elusive predators.

This research has profound implications for wildlife conservation strategies in tropical regions. While abundant domestic prey supports leopard populations, it also sets the stage for potential human-wildlife conflicts. As leopards venture into human-inhabited areas in search of food, livestock predation can lead to retaliatory killings, further endangering these majestic cats.

Moreover, the study’s findings describe the importance of integrating wildlife conservation efforts with local agricultural practices. Strategies that promote coexistence—such as securing livestock enclosures or implementing community awareness programs—could help mitigate conflict while preserving leopard populations.

The dynamics of predator-prey relationships are complex and often shaped by human activity. This research not only sheds light on the adaptability of leopards in changing landscapes but also calls for a re-evaluation of conservation approaches in regions where wildlife and domestic animals coexist. By understanding these interactions, we can work towards a future where both leopards and local livelihoods can thrive.

To access the full article, click here.

 

Keywords: Conflict, diet, domestic dog, human-dominated landscape, leopard, Panthera pardus