Livestock Predation by Snow Leopards: Conflicts and the Search for Solutions

Charudutt Mishra*, Stephen R. Redpath, Kulbhushansingh R. Suryawanshi

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

35 Citations (Scopus)

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 languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSnow Leopards
Subtitle of host publicationBiodiversity of the World: Conservation from Genes to Landscapes
EditorsTom McCarthy, David Mallon
PublisherAcademic Press
Pages59-67
Number of pages9
ISBN (Electronic)9780128024966
ISBN (Print)9780128022139
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 24 Jun 2016

Bibliographical note

Acknowledgment

We 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

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