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Author Khanal, G., Mishra, C., Suryawanshi, K. R.
Title Relative influence of wild prey and livestock abundance on carnivore-caused livestock predation Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication (up) Ecology and Evolution Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-11
Keywords conservation conflict, human carnivore conflict, large mammalian carnivore, livestock depredation, Nepal, Shey Phoksundo National Park, snow leopard
Abstract Conservation conflict over livestock depredation is one of the

key drivers of large mammalian carnivore declines worldwide. Mitigating

this conflict requires strategies informed by reliable knowledge of

factors influencing livestock depredation. Wild prey and livestock

abundance are critical factors influencing the extent of livestock

depredation. We compared whether the extent of livestock predation by

snow leopards Panthera uncia differed in relation to densities of wild

prey, livestock, and snow leopards at two sites in Shey Phoksundo

National Park, Nepal. We used camera trap-based spatially explicit

capture–recapture models to estimate snow leopard density;

double-observer surveys to estimate the density of their main prey

species, the blue sheep Pseudois nayaur; and interview-based household

surveys to estimate livestock population and number of livestock killed

by snow leopards. The proportion of livestock lost per household was

seven times higher in Upper Dolpa, the site which had higher snow

leopard density (2.51 snow leopards per 100 km2) and higher livestock

density (17.21 livestock per km2) compared to Lower Dolpa (1.21 snow

leopards per 100 km2; 4.5 livestock per km2). The wild prey density was

similar across the two sites (1.81 and 1.57 animals per km2 in Upper and

Lower Dolpa, respectively). Our results suggest that livestock

depredation level may largely be determined by the abundances of the

snow leopards and livestock and predation levels on livestock can vary

even at similar levels of wild prey density. In large parts of the snow

leopard range, livestock production is indispensable to local

livelihoods and livestock population is expected to increase to meet the

demand of cashmere. Hence, we recommend that any efforts to increase

livestock populations or conservation initiatives aimed at recovering or

increasing snow leopard population be accompanied by better herding

practices (e.g., predator-proof corrals) to protect livestock from snow

leopard.
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Call Number Serial 1611
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Author Din, J. U., Ali, H., Ali, A., Younus, M., Mehmood,, T., Rashid, Y. N., Nawaz, M. A.
Title Pastoralist-predator interaction at the roof of the world: Conflict dynamics and implications for conservation Type Journal Article
Year 2017 Publication (up) Ecology and Society Abbreviated Journal
Volume 22 Issue 2 Pages
Keywords Afghan Pamir; carnivore; conflict; Pak Pamir; pastoralist; predation; snow leopard; Tajik Pamir; wolf
Abstract Pastoralism and predation are two major concomitantly known facts and matters of concern for conservation biologists worldwide. Pastoralist-predator conflict constitutes a major social-ecological concern in the Pamir mountain range encompassing Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Tajikistan, and affects community attitudes and tolerance toward carnivores. Very few studies have been conducted to understand the dynamics of livestock predation by large carnivores like snow leopards (Panthera uncia) and wolves (Canis

lupus), owing to the region�s remoteness and inaccessibility. This study attempts to assess the intensity of livestock predation (and resulting perceptions) by snow leopards and wolves across the Afghani, Pakistani, and Tajik Pamir range during the period January 2008�June 2012. The study found that livestock mortality due to disease is the most serious threat to livestock (an average 3.5 animal heads per household per year) and ultimately to the rural economy (an average of US$352 per household per year) as compared to

predation (1.78 animal heads per household per year, US$191) in the three study sites. Overall, 1419 (315 per year) heads of livestock were reportedly killed by snow leopards (47%) and wolves (53%) in the study sites. People with comparatively smaller landholdings and limited earning options, other than livestock rearing, expressed negative attitudes toward both wolves and snow leopards and vice versa. Education was found to be an effective solution to dilute people�s hatred for predators. Low public tolerance of the wolf and

snow leopard in general explained the magnitude of the threat facing predators in the Pamirs. This will likely continue unless tangible and informed conservation measures like disease control and predation compensation programs are taken among others.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1453
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Author Alexander, J. S., Bijoor, A., Gurmet, K., Murali, R., Mishra, C., Suryawanshi, K. R.
Title Engaging women brings conservation benefits to snow leopard landscapes Type Journal Article
Year 2022 Publication (up) Environmental Conservation Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1 - 7
Keywords community conservation; gender; large carnivores; snow leopard; women
Abstract Protection of biodiversity requires inclusive and gender-responsive programming. Evidence of success in engaging women in large carnivore conservation remains scarce, however, although women play an important role in caring for livestock at risk of predation and could contribute to large-carnivore conservation. We aimed to assess the performance of an income-generation and skills-building programme for women in Spiti Valley (India) that sought to engage women in local conservation action. Annual programme monitoring together with a one-time survey of attitudes, perceptions and social norms in eight communities exposed to the conservation programme and seven ‘control’ communities revealed: a keen interest and increasing levels of women’s participation over 7 years of programme operation; participant reports of multiple programme benefits including additional personal income, social networking and travel opportunities; and more positive attitudes towards snow leopards among programme participants than among non-participants in the control communities. Women from programme communities recorded in their diaries 33 self-directed conservation actions including improving livestock protection and preventing wildlife poaching. These results show a way forward to purposively engage women in conservation programming towards achieving sustainable and equitable outcomes in efforts to promote carnivore–human coexistence.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1689
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Author Mishra, C.
Title Livestock depredation by large carnivores in the Indian trans-Himalaya: Conflict perceptions and conservation prospects Type Journal Article
Year 1997 Publication (up) Environmental Conservation Abbreviated Journal
Volume 24 Issue 4 Pages 338-343
Keywords canis lupis; carnivore; conflict; human-wildlife conflict; India; livestock; livestock depredation; snow leopard; trans-himalaya; Uncia uncia; wolf
Abstract Livestock depredation by the snow leopard, Uncia uncia, and the wolf, Canis lupus, has resulted in a human-wildlife conflict that hinders the conservation of these globally-threatened species throughout their range. This paper analyses the alleged economic loss due to livestock depredation by these carnivores, and the retaliatory responses of an agro-pastoral community around Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary in the Indian trans-Himalaya. The three villages studied (80 households) attributed a total of 189 livestock deaths (18% of the livestock holding) over a period of 18 months to wild predators, and this would amount to a loss per household equivalent to half the average annual per capita income. The financial compensation received by the villagers from the Government amounted to 3% of the perceived annual loss. Recent intensification of the conflict seems related to a 37.7% increase in livestock holding in the last decade. Villagers have been killing the wolf, though apparently not the snow leopard. A self-financed compensation scheme, and modification of existing livestock pens are suggested as area-specific short-term measures to reduce the conflict. The need to address the problem of increasing livestock holding in the long run is emphasized.
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Call Number SLN @ rana @ 333 Serial 689
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Author Hanson, J. H.
Title Household Conflicts with Snow Leopard Conservation and Impacts from Snow Leopards in the Everest and Annapurna Regions of Nepal Type Journal Article
Year Publication (up) Environmental Management Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1 of 12
Keywords Human-wildlife conflict, Annapurna conservation area, Sagarmatha national park, South asia, Human-wildlife coexistence, Carnivores
Abstract Impacts on households from large carnivores are frequently reported in the conservation literature, but conflicts between households and large carnivore conservation are not. Employing a human-wildlife coexistence framework that distinguishes between human-wildlife impacts on one hand, and human-conservation conflicts on the other, this paper presents data from Annapurna Conservation Area and Sagarmatha (Everest) National Park, Nepal, each with different models of conservation governance. Using systematic sampling, quantitative information from 705 households was collected via questionnaires, while 70 semi-structured interviews were conducted with key informants for cross-methods triangulation. 7.7% of households reported conflicts with snow leopard conservation in the previous 12 months, primarily due to damage to livelihoods; these were significantly higher in the Annapurna region. 373 livestock were reported lost by households to snow leopards in the previous 12 months, representing 3.4% of total livestock owned and US$ 132,450 in financial value. Livestock losses were significantly lower in the Everest area. In linear regression models, total household livestock losses to all sources best explained conflicts with snow leopard conservation and household livestock losses to snow leopards but the models for the former dependent variable had very low explanatory power. Conservation in general, and large carnivore conservation in particular, should distinguish carefully between impacts caused by coexistence with these species and conflicts with conservation actors and over the methods and interventions used to conserve carnivores, especially where these negatively impact local livelihoods. In addition, livestock husbandry standards are highlighted again as an important factor in the success of carnivore conservation programmes.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1679
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Author Alexander, J. S., Agvaantseren, B., Gongor, E., Mijiddorj, T. N., Piaopiao, T., Stephen Redpath, S., Young, J., Mishra, C.
Title Assessing the Effectiveness of a Community-based Livestock Insurance Program Type Journal Article
Year 2021 Publication (up) Environmental Management Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages
Keywords Large carnivores, Snow leopard conservation, Human-wildlife conflicts, Livestock insurance, Community conservation, Human-wildlife co-existence, Snow leopard
Abstract
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Call Number Serial 1635
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Author Lovari, S., Ventimiglia, M., Minder, I.
Title Food habits of two leopard species, competition, climate change and upper treeline: a way to the decrease of an endangered species? Type Journal Article
Year 2013 Publication (up) Ethology Ecology & Evolution Abbreviated Journal
Volume 25 Issue 4 Pages 305-318
Keywords carnivore evolution, coexistence, sympatric species, diet, Panthera uncia, Panthera pardus.
Abstract For carnivore species, spatial avoidance is one of the evolutionary solutions to

coexist in an area, especially if food habits overlap and body sizes tend to coincide.

We reviewed the diets of two large cats of similar sizes, the endangered snow leopard

(Panthera uncia, 16 studies) and the near-threatened common leopard (Panthera par-

dus, 11 studies), in Asia. These cats share ca 10,000 km2 of their mountainous range,

although snow leopards tend to occur at a significantly higher altitude than common

leopards, the former being a cold-adapted species of open habitats, whereas the latter

is an ecologically flexible one, with a preference for woodland. The spectrum of prey

of common leopards was 2.5 times greater than that of snow leopards, with wild prey

being the staple for both species. Livestock rarely contributed much to the diet. When

the breadth of trophic niches was compared, overlap ranged from 0.83 (weight categories)

to one (main food categories). As these leopard species have approximately

the same size and comparable food habits, one can predict that competition will arise

when they live in sympatry. On mountains, climate change has been elevating the

upper forest limit, where both leopard species occur. This means a habitat increase

for common leopards and a substantial habitat reduction for snow leopards, whose

range is going to be squeezed between the forest and the barren rocky altitudes, with

medium- to long-term undesirable effects on the conservation of this endangered cat
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1403
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Author Bocci, A., Lovari, S., Khan, M. Z., Mori, E.
Title Sympatric snow leopards and Tibetan wolves: coexistence of large carnivores with human-driven potential competition Type Journal Article
Year 2017 Publication (up) European Journal of Wildlife Research Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-9
Keywords Panthera uncia . Canis lupus filchneri . Competition . Large-carnivore coexistence . Siberian ibex
Abstract The snow leopard Panthera uncia coexists with the wolf Canis lupus throughout most of its distribution range.

We analysed the food habits of snow leopards and wolves in their sympatric range in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan. A total of 131 genotyped scats (N = 74, snow leopard; N = 57, Tibetan wolf) were collected during the cold periods (i.e. winter and spring) of 2011 and 2012 in the Hushey valley. Large mammals, i.e. livestock and ibex, accounted for 84.8 and 83.1% of the diet (relative frequency) of the snow leopard and the wolf, respectively. Domestic prey was the staple of the diet of both snow leopards (66.6%) and wolves (75.1%). Ibex Capra ibex, the only wild ungulate in our study area, contributed 18.2 and 16.9%of relative frequencies in the

diets of the snow leopard and the wolf, respectively. In winter, the snowleopard heavily relied on domestic sheep (43.3%) for food, whereas the wolf preyed mainly on domestic goats (43.4%). Differently from other study areas, both snow leopards and wolves showed no apparent prey preference (Jacobs

index: snow leopard min. − 0.098, max. 0.102; Tibetan wolf min. − 0.120, max. 0.03). In human depauperate areas, with livestock and only a few wild prey, should competitive interactions arise, two main scenarios could be expected, with either predator as a winner. In both cases, the best solution

could primarily impinge on habitat restoration, so that a balance could be found between these predators, who have already coexisted for thousands of years.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1464
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Author Lu, Q., Xiao, L., Cheng, C., Lu, Z., Zhao, J., Yao, M.
Title Snow Leopard Dietary Preferences and Livestock Predation Revealed by Fecal DNA Metabarcoding: No Evidence for Apparent Competition Between Wild and Domestic Prey Type Journal Article
Year 2021 Publication (up) Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue 783546 Pages 1 - 14
Keywords apparent mutualism, blue sheep, feeding habits, molecular dietary analysis, human-carnivore conflict, prey selection, Sanjiangyuan
Abstract Accurate assessments of the patterns and drivers of livestock depredation by wild carnivores are vital for designing effective mitigation strategies to reduce human-wildlife conflict. Snow leopard’s (Panthera uncia) range extensively overlaps pastoralist land- use and livestock predation there is widely reported, but the ecological determinants of livestock consumption by snow leopards remain obscure. We investigated snow leopard dietary habits at seven sites across the Sanjiangyuan region of the Qinghai– Tibetan Plateau (QTP), an area central to the species’ global range. Snow leopard abundance, wild prey composition, and livestock density varied among those sites, thus allowing us to test the effects of various factors on snow leopard diet and livestock predation. Using DNA metabarcoding, we obtained highly resolved dietary data from 351 genetically verified snow leopard fecal samples. We then analyzed the prey preferences of snow leopards and examined ecological factors related to their livestock consumption. Across the sites, snow leopard prey was composed mainly of wild ungulates (mean = 81.5% of dietary sequences), particularly bharal (Pseudois nayaur), and supplemented with livestock (7.62%) and smaller mammals (marmots, pikas, mice; 10.7%). Snow leopards showed a strong preference for bharal, relative to livestock, based on their densities. Interestingly, both proportional and total livestock consumption by snow leopards increased linearly with local livestock biomass, but not with livestock density. That, together with a slight negative relationship with bharal density, supports apparent facilitation between wild and domestic prey. We also found a significant positive correlation between population densities of snow leopard and bharal, yet those densities showed slight negative relationships with livestock density. Our results highlight the importance of sufficient wild ungulate abundance to the conservation of viable snow leopard populations. Additionally, livestock protection is critically needed to reduce losses to snow leopard depredation, especially where local livestock abundances are high.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1675
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Author Augugliaro, C., Christe, P., Janchivlamdan, C., Baymanday, H., Zimmermann, F.
Title Patterns of human interaction with snow leopard and co-predators in the Mongolian western Altai: Current issues and perspectives Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication (up) Global Ecology and Conservation Abbreviated Journal
Volume 24 Issue Pages 1-21
Keywords Depredation Human-carnivores interaction Mongolian altai Snow leopard Wolf Wolverine
Abstract Large carnivores can cause considerable economic damage,

mainly due to livestock depredation. These conficts instigate negative

attitude towards their conservation, which could in the extreme case

lead to retaliatory killing. Here we focus on the snow leopard (Panthera

uncia), a species of conservation concern with particularly large

spatial requirements. We conducted the study in the Bayan Olgii

province, one of the poorest provinces of Mongolia, where the majority

of the human population are traditional herders. We conducted a survey

among herders (N 261) through a semi-structured questionnaire with the

aim to assess: the current and future herding practices and prevention

measures, herders’ perceptions and knowledge of the environmental

protection and hunting laws; the perceived livestock losses to snow

leopard, wolf (Canis lupus), and wolverine (Gulo gulo), as well as to

non-predatory factors; the key factors affecting livestock losses to

these three large carnivores; and, finally, the attitudes towards these

three large carnivores. Non-predatory causes of mortality were slightly

higher than depredation cases, representing 4.5% and 4.3% of livestock

holdings respectively. While no depredation of livestock was reported

from wolverines, snow leopard and wolf depredation made up 0.2% and 4.1%

of total livestock holdings, respectively. Herders’ attitudes towards

the three large carnivores were negatively affected by the magnitude of

the damages since they had a positive overall attitude towards both snow

leopard and wolverine, whereas the attitude towards wolf was negative.

We discuss conservation and management options to mitigate herder-snow

leopard impacts. To palliate the negative consequences of the increasing

trend in livestock numbers, herd size reduction should be encouraged by

adding economic value to the individual livestock and/or by promoting

alternative income and/or ecotourism. Furthermore, co-management between

government and stakeholders would help tackle this complex problem, with

herders playing a major role in the development of livestock management

strategies. Traditional practices, such as regularly shifting campsites

and using dogs and corrals at night, could reduce livestock losses

caused by snow leopards.
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Call Number Serial 1627
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Author Maheshwari, A., Midha, N.,Chehrukupalli, A.
Title Participatory Rural Appraisal and Compensation Intervention: Challenges and Protocols While Managing Large Carnivore–Human Conflict Type Journal Article
Year 2014 Publication (up) Human Dimensions of Wildlife: An International Journal Abbreviated Journal
Volume 19 Issue Pages 62-71
Keywords PRA, large carnivores–human conflict, compensation, livestock depredation, data collection protocols
Abstract When large carnivores cause socioeconomic losses in a community, conflict increases,

retaliatory killing of the carnivore can occur, and conservation efforts are undermined.

We focused on Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and economic compensation

schemes as approaches for managing conflict. PRA is a tool for collecting data on

the large carnivore–human conflict and economic compensation schemes for those

affected negatively by carnivore presence. We reviewed published papers and reports

on large carnivore–human conflicts, PRA, and compensation schemes. This article

details insights into common pitfalls, key lessons learned, possible solutions including

new approaches for compensation and protocols to be followed while managing large

carnivore–human conflict. We hope to contribute to a meaningful dialogue between

locals, managers, and researchers and help in effective implementation of conservation

programs to mitigate large carnivore–human conflict around the protected areas.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1404
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Author Suryawanshi, K.R., Bhatnagar, Y. V. B., Redpath, S., Mishra, C.
Title People, predators and perceptions: patterns of livestock depredation by snow leopards and wolves Type Journal Article
Year 2013 Publication (up) Journal of Applied Ecology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 50 Issue Pages 550-560
Keywords Canis lupus, Capra ibex, human–wildlife conflict, large carnivores, Panthera uncia, Pseudois nayaur, trans-Himalaya
Abstract 1. Livestock depredation by large carnivores is an important conservation and economic concern

and conservation management would benefit from a better understanding of spatial variation

and underlying causes of depredation events. Focusing on the endangered snow leopard

Panthera uncia and the wolf Canis lupus, we identify the ecological factors that predispose

areas within a landscape to livestock depredation. We also examine the potential mismatch

between reality and human perceptions of livestock depredation by these carnivores whose

survival is threatened due to persecution by pastoralists.

2. We assessed the distribution of the snow leopard, wolf and wild ungulate prey through field

surveys in the 4000 km2 Upper Spiti Landscape of trans-Himalayan India. We interviewed local

people in all 25 villages to assess the distribution of livestock and peoples’ perceptions of the risk

to livestock from these carnivores. We monitored village-level livestock mortality over a 2-year

period to assess the actual level of livestock depredation. We quantified several possibly influential

independent variables that together captured variation in topography, carnivore abundance

and abundance and other attributes of livestock. We identified the key variables influencing livestock

depredation using multiple logistic regressions and hierarchical partitioning.

3. Our results revealed notable differences in livestock selectivity and ecological correlates of

livestock depredation – both perceived and actual – by snow leopards and wolves. Stocking

density of large-bodied free-ranging livestock (yaks and horses) best explained people’s threat

perception of livestock depredation by snow leopards, while actual livestock depredation was

explained by the relative abundance of snow leopards and wild prey. In the case of wolves,

peoples’ perception was best explained by abundance of wolves, while actual depredation by

wolves was explained by habitat structure.

4. Synthesis and applications. Our results show that (i) human perceptions can be at odds

with actual patterns of livestock depredation, (ii) increases in wild prey populations will intensify

livestock depredation by snow leopards, and prey recovery programmes must be accompanied

by measures to protect livestock, (iii) compensation or insurance programmes should

target large-bodied livestock in snow leopard habitats and (iv) sustained awareness

programmes are much needed, especially for the wolf.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1396
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Author Maheshwari, A., Sathyakumar, S.
Title Patterns of Livestock Depredation and Large Carnivore Conservation Implications in the Indian Trans-Himalaya Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication (up) Journal of Arid Environments Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-5
Keywords Large carnivores Livestock depredation Participatory approach Snow leopard Kargil Himalaya
Abstract Livestock is one of the major sources of livelihood for the

agro-pastoral communities in central and south Asia. Livestock

depredation by large carnivores is a wide-ranging issue that leads to

economic losses and a deviance from co-existence. We investigated the

grass root factors causing livestock depredation in Kargil, Ladakh and

tested the findings of diet analysis in validating reported livestock

depredation. Globally vulnerable snow leopard (Panthera uncia) and more

common wolf (Canis lupus) were the two main wild predators. A total of

1113 heads of livestock were reportedly killed by wolf (43.6%) followed

by unknown predators (31.4%) and snow leopard (21.5%) in the study site

from 2009 to 2012, which comes to 2.8% annual livestock losses. Scat

analysis also revealed a significant amount of livestock in the diet of

snow leopard (47%) and wolf (51%). Poor livestock husbandry practices

and traditional livestock corrals were found to be the major drivers

contributing in the livestock depredation. Based on the research

findings, we worked with the local communities to sensitize them about

wildlife conservation and extended limited support for predator proof

livestock corrals at a small scale. Eventually it helped in reducing

conflict level and conserving the globally threatened carnivores. We

conclude that a participatory approach has been successful to generate

an example in reducing large carnivore-human conflict in the west

Himalaya.
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Call Number Serial 1609
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Author Khan, B., Ablimit, A., Nawaz, M. A., Ali, R., Khan, M. Z., Jaffaruddin, Karim, R.
Title Pastoralist experience and tolerance of snow leopard, wolf and lynx predation in Karakoram Pamir Mountains Type Journal Article
Year 2014 Publication (up) Journal of Biodiversity and Envirnomental Sciences Abbreviated Journal
Volume 5 Issue 4 Pages 214-229
Keywords Carnivore, herbivores, interaction, Karakoram, Pamir, Khunjerab, Taxkorgan, China, Pakistan
Abstract Human-carnivore conflict is a common conservation and livelihood issue in mountain communities. This study was conducted to understand nature and extent of socio-ecological interaction between pastoralism and wildlife conservation in cold deserts of Karakoram Pamir Mountains (KPM) between China and Pakistan. Study revealed that livestock depredation is a burning issue in KPM with varying intensity from place to place, depending upon wild prey abundance, herd size, herding practices, predator type and age. Snow leopard, wolf and lynx were the major predators, while Brown bear despite its presence was reported being less fatal to livestock. Snow leopard killed highest number of animals (88.7% n=1440) mostly sheep and goats whereas, wolf killed more juvenile yaks. Lynx was found occasionally predating on young domestic crop. Highest number of kills was recorded from pastures during summer months (July-Aug) when animals were free grazing or were kept inside pens at night. Wild prey base being abysmally low, livestock seemed offering a considerable portion of diet to carnivores. Despite considerable losses from carnivores, more respondents in KNP (Pakistan) buffer zone had sympathies for predators compared to those in TNR (China) who were annoyed of the carnivores. Although people attributed escalating human-carnivore conflict to a higher level of protection to wild animals in Protected Areas (PA) but efforts are still needed to judiciously integrate conservation with local livelihood and development needs, otherwise herders may continue losing their livestock to predators and retaliatory killing of endangered carnivore species i.e., Snow leopard and Wolf may continue unabated and would further destabilize the fragile mountain ecosystem.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1418
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Author Vipin, Golla, T. R., Sharma, V., Kumar, B. K., Gaur, A.
Title Kleptoparasitic interaction between Snow Leopard Panthera uncia and Red Fox Vulpes vulpes suggested by circumstantial evidence in Pin Valley National Park, India Type Journal Article
Year 2022 Publication (up) Journal of Threatened Taxa Abbreviated Journal
Volume 14 Issue 10 Pages 21928-21935
Keywords Animal interaction, carnivore, mammals, prey, Trans-Himalaya.
Abstract In the present study, we describe an interspecific kleptoparasitic interaction between two sympatric mammalian carnivores in the high altitudinal Trans-Himalaya region of Himachal Pradesh, India. The study was based on the inferences drawn from the circumstantial evidence (direct and indirect) noticed in the study area in Pin Valley National Park. The inferences from the analysis of the evidence suggested the interaction between a Snow Leopard Panthera uncia, a Red Fox Vulpes vulpes, and a donkey. The arrangement of evidence in a sequential manner suggested that a donkey was killed by a Snow Leopard and a Red Fox stole the food from the carrion of the Snow Leopard’s prey. The Red Fox was killed by the Snow Leopard, which was caught while stealing. The present study represents an example of kleptoparasitic interaction between the Snow Leopard and the Red Fox. This study also proves that such interactions may cost the life of a kleptoparasite and supports the retaliation behaviour of Snow Leopards.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1702
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Author Mishra, C.; Bagchi, S.
Title Living with large carnivores: predation on livestock by the snow leopard (Uncia uncia) Type Journal Article
Year 2006 Publication (up) Journal of Zoology Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-8
Keywords large; carnivores; carnivore; predation; livestock; snow; snow leopard; snow-leopard; leopard; uncia
Abstract Livestock predation by large carnivores and their retaliatory persecution by pastoralists are worldwide conservation concerns. Poor understanding of the ecological and social underpinnings of this human-wildlife conflict hampers effective conflict management programs. The endangered snow leopard Uncia uncia is involved in conflict with people across its mountainous range in South and Central Asia, where pastoralism is the predominant land use, and is widely persecuted in retaliation. We examined human-snow leopard conflict at two sites in the Spiti region of the Indian Trans-Himalaya, where livestock outnumber wild ungulates, and the conflict is acute. We quantified the snow leopard's dependence on livestock by assessing its diet in two sites that differed in the relative abundance of livestock and wild ungulates. We also surveyed the indigenous Buddhist community's attitudes towards the snow leopard in these two sites. Our results show a relatively high dependence of snow leopards on livestock. A higher proportion of the snow leopard's diet (58%) was livestock in the area with higher livestock (29.7 animals km^2) and lower wild ungulate abundance (2.1-3.1 bharal Pseudois nayaurkm^2), compared with 40% of diet in the area with relatively lower livestock (13.9km^2) and higher wild ungulate abundance (4.5-7.8 ibex Capra ibexkm^2). We found that the community experiencing greater levels of livestock losses was comparatively more tolerant towards the snow leopard. This discrepancy is explained by the presence of a conservation-incentive program at the site, and by differences in economic roles of livestock between these two communities. The former is more dependent on cash crops as a source of income while the latter is more dependent on livestock, and thereby less tolerant of the snow leopard. These data have implications for conflict management strategies. They indicate that the relative densities of livestock and wild prey may be reasonable predictors of the extent of predation by the snow leopard. However, this by itself is not an adequate measure of the intensity of conflict even in apparently similar cultural settings.
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Call Number SLN @ rana @ 862 Serial 696
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Author Waits, L.P.; Buckley-Beason, V.A.; Johnson, W.E.; Onorato, D.; McCarthy, T.
Title A select panel of polymorphic microsatellite loci for individual identification of snow leopards (Panthera uncia)  Type Miscellaneous
Year 2006 Publication (up) Molecular Ecology Notes Abbreviated Journal
Volume 7 Issue Pages 311-314
Keywords identification; leopard; leopards; microsatellites,noninvasive genetic sampling,Panthera uncia,snow leopard; panthera; Panthera-uncia; panthera uncia; snow; snow-leopard; snow-leopards; snow leopard; snow leopards; uncia; endangered; carnivores; carnivore; mountain; region; central; Central Asia; asia; methods; conservation; management; Molecular; individual identification; Hair; domestic; cat; felis; captive; number; probability; using; wild
Abstract Snow leopards (Panthera uncia) are elusive endangered carnivores found in remote mountain regions of Central Asia. New methods for identifying and counting snow leopards are needed for conservation and management efforts. To develop molecular genetic tools for individual identification of hair and faecal samples, we screened 50 microsatellite loci developed for the domestic cat (Felis catus) in 19 captive snow leopards. Forty-eight loci were polymorphic with numbers of alleles per locus ranging from two to 11. The probability of observing matching genotypes for unrelated individuals (2.1 x10-11) and siblings (7.5x10-5) using the 10 most polymorphic loci was low, suggesting that this panel would easily discriminate among individuals in the wild.
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Call Number SLN @ rana @ 865 Serial 1001
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Author Rosen, T. Hussain, S. Mohammad, G. Jackson, R. Janecka, J, E. Michel, S.
Title Reconciling Sustainable Development of Mountain Communities With Large Carnivore Conservation Type Journal Article
Year 2012 Publication (up) Mountain Research and Development Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue 32(3) Pages 286-293
Keywords Carnivores; conflict; conservation; incentives; livestock; insurance scheme; community empowerment; Pakistan
Abstract While the world is becoming increasingly interconnected and interdependent, physically and culturally, the wildlife of remote mountain regions is being affected both positively and negatively by such interconnectedness. In the case of snow leopards, the conservation impact has been largely, and rather unexpectedly, positive: Species-focused conservation projects, such as Project Snow Leopard (PSL) in

Gilgit-Baltistan, remain mainly externally driven initiatives. PSL, initiated as a small pilot project in 1998, has relied on an approach that includes the use of an insurance scheme, the deployment of mitigation measures, and the empowerment of local governance. This approach has been successful in

reducing the conflict with snow leopards and has built greater tolerance toward them. PSL is managed by local communities and cofinanced by them. PSL communities throughout the region are bearing the burden of carnivore conservation, and they are unwittingly subsidizing their populations by ‘‘feeding’’

them their livestock even though they are an economic threat to them. In this article, we argue that external intervention in the form of efforts that help alleviate the consequences of conflict through local empowerment have had a positive impact on the local mountain societies. We also show that such interventions have resulted in tangible conservation results, with the number of snow leopards staying at least stable. Our experience also shows that while the incentive component is critical, it is also part of a larger approach—one that includes developing and supporting local governance structures, improving access to education, and offering a range of tools to reduce the conflict that can be implemented

locally. Finally, we suggest that investing in this approach— one that recognizes the species and local-context complexities surrounding the implementation of conservation incentives—can continue to inform international practices and guidelines for reducing human–wildlife conflicts worldwide.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1387
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Author Chapron, G.
Title Re-wilding: other projects help carnivores stay wild Type Journal Article
Year 2005 Publication (up) Nature Abbreviated Journal
Volume 437 Issue Pages 318
Keywords Acinonyx jubatus, carnivore, coexistence, conservation, damage prevention, Panthera leo, snow leopard, survival, Uncia uncia
Abstract Letter to Nature Editor, in response to: In their plea for bringing Pleistocene wildlife to the New World (“Re-wilding North America” Nature 436, 913–914; 2005), Josh Donlan and colleagues do not discuss successful efforts to ensure long-term survival of large carnivores in Africa and Asia. A few examples are given.
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Call Number SLN @ rana @ Serial 1114
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Author Linnell, J.; Swenson, J.; Landa A.; and Kvam, T.
Title Methods for monitoring European large carnivores – A worldwide review of relevant experience Type Journal Article
Year 1998 Publication (up) NINA Oppdragsmelding Abbreviated Journal
Volume 549 Issue Pages 1-38
Keywords carnivore; monitoring; census; bear; Lynx; wolf; wolverine; 5310
Abstract Against a background of recovering large carnivore populations in Norway, and many other areas of Europe, it is becoming increasingly important to develop methods to monitor their populations. A variety of parameters can monitored depending on objectives. These parameters include: presence/absense, distribution, population trend indices, minimum counts, statistical estimates of population size, reproductive parameters and health/condition. Three broad categories of monitoring techniques can be recognised each with increasing levels of fieldwork required. The first category includes those techniques that do not require original fieldwork. The second category involves fieldwork, but where individually recognisable carnivores are not available. The third category includes methods where fieldwork has recognisable individuals available. Different mehtods tend to have been used for different species, mainly because of limitations imposed by the different species' ecology. The most precise estimates of population size have been obtained in research projects with relatively small study sites and with the help of radio-telemetry. However, it may be difficult, or impossible, to apply these methods over large monitoring areas. Therefore, in terms of practical management, a combination of minimum counts, supported by an independent index may be more useful than statistical population estimates. All methods should be subject to a careful design process, and power analysis should be conducted to determine the sensitivity of the method to detect changes.

Based on the review of over 200 papers and reports we recommend a package of complementary monitoring methods for brown bear, wolverine, lynx and wolf in Norway. These include the use of observations from the public and reports of predation on livestock to determine broad patterns of distribution, and an index based on hunter observations per hunting day, for all four species. Minimum counts of reproductive units, natal dens, family groups, and packs, should be obtained from snow-tracking for wolverines, lynx and wolves respectively. In addition a track-count index should be obtained for wolverines and lynx. As much data as possible should be obtained of lynx and wolvereines killed in the annual harvest. Brown bears will be difficult to monitor without the use of radio-telemetry, therfore they may require periodic telemetry based, mark-recapture studies. Such a program can easily be constructed within existing central and regional wildlife management structures, but will require extensive involvement from hunters.
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Notes Document Type: English Approved no
Call Number SLN @ rana @ 516 Serial 622
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Author Schutgens, M. G., Hanson, J. H., Baral, N., Ale, S. B.
Title Visitors’ willingness to pay for snow leopard Panthera uncia conservation in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal Type Journal Article
Year 2018 Publication (up) Oryx Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1 - 10
Keywords Carnivore conservation, contingent valuation, economic valuation, existence value, Panthera uncia, snow leopard, threatened species, wildlife policy
Abstract The Vulnerable snow leopard Panthera uncia experiences

persecution across its habitat in Central Asia, particularly

from herders because of livestock losses. Given the

popularity of snow leopards worldwide, transferring some

of the value attributed by the international community to

these predators may secure funds and support for their conservation.

We administered contingent valuation surveys to

 international visitors to the Annapurna Conservation

Area, Nepal, between May and June , to determine

their willingness to pay a fee to support the implementation

of a Snow Leopard Conservation Action Plan. Of the %of

visitors who stated they would pay a snow leopard conservation

fee in addition to the existing entry fee, the mean

amount that they were willing to pay was USD  per trip.

The logit regression model showed that the bid amount, the

level of support for implementing the Action Plan, and the

number of days spent in the Conservation Area were significant

predictors of visitors’ willingness to pay. The main reasons

stated by visitors for their willingness to pay were a

desire to protect the environment and an affordable fee. A

major reason for visitors’ unwillingness to pay was that

the proposed conservation fee was too expensive for them.

This study represents the first application of economic valuation

to snow leopards, and is relevant to the conservation of

threatened species in the Annapurna Conservation Area

and elsewhere.
Address http://snowleopardnetwork.org/bibliography/Schutgensetal_2018.pdf
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1467
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Author Mishra, C.; Madhusudan, M.D.; Datta, A.
Title Mammals of the high altitudes of western Arunachal Pradesh, eastern Himalaya: an assessment of threats and conservation needs Type Miscellaneous
Year 2006 Publication (up) Oryx Abbreviated Journal
Volume 40 Issue 1 Pages 1-7
Keywords anthropogenic; area; Arunachal; assessment; awareness; bharal; biodiversity; carnivore; carnivores; community; community-based; conservation; deer; depredation; dhole; endangered; extinct; fauna; goral; grazing; habitat; habitats; High; Himalaya; hunting; incentives; India; indian; Iucn; leopard; livestock; livestock-depredation; livestock depredation; local; mammals; musk; musk-deer; nayaur; panthera; people; peoples; plant; plants; potential; Pseudois; Pseudois-nayaur; pseudois nayaur; range; recent; region; Report; reserve; resource; schools; snow; snow-leopard; snow leopard; species; survey; surveys; threat; threatened; threats; tiger; uncia; Uncia-uncia; Uncia uncia; ungulate; ungulates; valley; wildlife; work; Panthera-tigris; tigris
Abstract The high altitudes of Arunachal Pradesh,India, located in the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, remain zoologically unexplored and unprotected. We report results of recent mammal surveys in the high altitude habitats of western Arunachal Pradesh. A total of 35 mammal species (including 12 carnivores, 10 ungulates and 5 primates) were recorded, of which 13 are categorized as Endangered or Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. One species of primate, the Arunachal macaque Macaca munzala, is new to science and the Chinese goral Nemorhaedus caudatus is a new addition to the ungulate fauna of the Indian subcontinent. We documented peoples' dependence on natural resources for grazing and extraction of timber and medicinal plants. The region's mammals are threatened by widespread hunting. The snow leopard Uncia uncia and dhole Cuon alpinus are also persecuted in retaliation for livestock depredation. The tiger Panthera tigris, earlier reported from the lower valleys, is now apparently extinct there, and range reductions over the last two decades are reported for bharal Pseudois nayaur and musk deer Moschus sp.. Based on mammal species richness, extent of high altitude habitat, and levels of anthropogenic disturbance, we identified a potential site for the creation of Arunachal's first high altitude wildlife reserve (815 km2). Community-based efforts that provide incentives for conservation-friendly practices could work in this area, and conservation awareness programmes are required, not just amongst the local communities and schools but for politicians, bureaucrats and the army.
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Call Number SLN @ rana @ 861 Serial 697
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Author Samelius, G., Suryawanshi, K., Frank, J., Agvaantseren, B., Baasandamba, E., Mijiddorj, T., Johansson, O., Tumursukh, L., Mishra, C.
Title Keeping predators out: testing fences to reduce livestock depredation at night-time corrals Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication (up) Oryx Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-7
Keywords Canis lupus, carnivore conservation, coexistence, conflict mitigation, conservation conflict, livestock depreda- tion, Panthera uncia, preventative measure
Abstract Livestock depredation by large carnivores is a global conservation challenge, and mitigation measures to reduce livestock losses are crucial for the coexistence of large carnivores and people. Various measures are employed to reduce livestock depredation but their effectiveness has rarely been tested. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of tall fences to reduce livestock losses to snow leopards Panthera uncia and wolves Canis lupus at night-time corrals at the winter camps of livestock herders in the Tost Mountains in southern Mongolia. Self-reported livestock losses at the fenced corrals were reduced from a mean loss of 3.9 goats and sheep per family and winter prior to the study to zero losses in the two winters of the study. In contrast, self-reported livestock losses in winter pastures, and during the rest of the year, when herders used different camps, remained high, which indicates that livestock losses were reduced because of the fences, not because of temporal variation in predation pressure. Herder attitudes towards snow leopards were positive and remained positive during the study, whereas attitudes towards wolves, which attacked livestock also in summer when herders moved out on the steppes, were negative and worsened during the study. This study showed that tall fences can be very effective at reducing night-time losses at corrals and we conclude that fences can be an important tool for snow leopard conservation and for facilitating the coexistence of snow leopards and people.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1492
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Author Ghoshal, A., Bhatnagar, Y. V., Pandav, B., Sharma, K., Mshra, C.
Title Assessing changes in distribution of the Endangered snow leopard Panthera uncia and its wild prey over 2 decades in the Indian Himalaya through interviewbased occupancy surveys Type Journal Article
Year 2017 Publication (up) Oryx Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-13
Keywords Asiatic ibex, blue sheep, carnivore, occupancy, snow leopard, survey, threat, ungulate
Abstract Understanding species distributions, patterns of

change and threats can form the basis for assessing the conservation

status of elusive species that are difficult to survey.

The snow leopard Panthera uncia is the top predator of the

Central and South Asian mountains. Knowledge of the distribution

and status of this elusive felid and its wild prey is

limited. Using recall-based key-informant interviews we estimated

site use by snow leopards and their primary wild

prey, blue sheep Pseudois nayaur and Asiatic ibex Capra

sibirica, across two time periods (past: �; recent:

�) in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. We

also conducted a threat assessment for the recent period.

Probability of site use was similar across the two time periods

for snow leopards, blue sheep and ibex, whereas for wild

prey (blue sheep and ibex combined) overall there was an

% contraction. Although our surveys were conducted in

areas within the presumed distribution range of the snow

leopard, we found snow leopards were using only % of

the area (, km). Blue sheep and ibex had distinct distribution

ranges. Snow leopards and their wild prey were not

restricted to protected areas, which encompassed only %

of their distribution within the study area. Migratory livestock

grazing was pervasive across ibex distribution range

and was the most widespread and serious conservation

threat. Depredation by free-ranging dogs, and illegal hunting

and wildlife trade were the other severe threats. Our

results underscore the importance of community-based, landscape-

scale conservation approaches and caution against reliance

on geophysical and opinion-based distribution maps that have been used to estimate national and global snow leopard ranges.
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Call Number SLN @ rakhee @ Serial 1463
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Author Chetri, M., Odden, M., Devineau, O., McCarthy, T., Wegge, P.
Title Multiple factors influence local perceptions of snow leopards and Himalayan wolves in the central Himalayas, Nepal. Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication (up) PeerJ Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-18
Keywords Panthera uncia, Canis lupus chanco, Perceptions, Large carnivores, Trans-Himalayas
Abstract An understanding of local perceptions of carnivores is

important for conservation and management planning. In the central

Himalayas, Nepal, we interviewed 428 individuals from 85 settlements

using a semi-structured questionnaire to quantitatively assess local

perceptions and tolerance of snow leopards and wolves. We used

generalized linear mixed effect models to assess influential factors,

and found that tolerance of snow leopards was much higher than of

wolves. Interestingly, having experienced livestock losses had a minor

impact on perceptions of the carnivores. Occupation of the respondents

had a strong effect on perceptions of snow leopards but not of wolves.

Literacy and age had weak impacts on snow leopard perceptions, but the

interaction among these terms showed a marked effect, that is, being

illiterate had a more marked negative impact among older respondents.

Among the various factors affecting perceptions of wolves, numbers of

livestock owned and gender were the most important predictors. People

with larger livestock herds were more negative towards wolves. In terms

of gender, males were more positive to wolves than females, but no such

pattern was observed for snow leopards. People’s negative perceptions

towards wolves were also related to the remoteness of the villages.

Factors affecting people’s perceptions could not be generalized for the

two species, and thus need to be addressed separately. We suggest future

conservation projects and programs should prioritize remote settlements.
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Notes Approved no
Call Number Serial 1615
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