Abstract
Retaliatory killing of snow leopards in response to predation on livestock is a significant factor in their endangerment, and a livelihood challenge for local communities. We review the ecological and anthropogenic causes of livestock predation. We show that this conservation conflict has multiple dimensions, including the reality of livestock damage and the perceptions and psyche of affected people. In this light, we discuss the current efforts to manage conflicts over livestock predation, and point out areas for improvement. We advocate a rejection of the term "human-snow leopard conflict" and its variants. We suggest that this conservation conflict is best viewed as a shared problem that must be addressed through a multipronged approach based on information sharing and respectful dialogue with local communities.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Snow Leopards |
Subtitle of host publication | Biodiversity of the World: Conservation from Genes to Landscapes |
Editors | Tom McCarthy, David Mallon |
Publisher | Academic Press |
Pages | 59-67 |
Number of pages | 9 |
ISBN (Electronic) | 9780128024966 |
ISBN (Print) | 9780128022139 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 24 Jun 2016 |
Bibliographical note
AcknowledgmentWe are grateful to Foundation Segré–Whitley Fund for Nature for supporting our research and conservation programs.
Keywords
- Central Asia
- Depredation
- Himalaya
- Human-wildlife conflict
- Panthera uncia
- Wolf, Canis lupus