- 27 May 2025
Peak Ridge Forest Corridor: 2023 Conservation Report by the Wilderness & Wildlife Conservation Trust
In 2023, the monitoring of PRFC revealed the presence of 11 individual leopards, although this is considered an underrepresentation due to limitations in monitoring the northwestern section of the corridor.
The relative abundance index (RAI) for PRFC in 2023 was 7.81, aligning with the average RAI over the past eight years. Leopard activity within PRFC included sightings of adult females, adult males, and cubs, with some notable females being long-term resident “OC” and her cub “OK,” as well as new females in the area.
However, conservation efforts face challenges, including an increase in poaching, tree felling, and forest fires due to the prevailing economic situation. To counter these challenges, anti-poaching measures, such as increased messaging and patrolling, are being prioritized. Additionally, the restoration of forest patches is being renewed, with a focus on cultivating montane forest plant species.
To enhance awareness, conservation corridor signage has been printed and distributed to partner estates. Leopard deaths caused by snares continue to be a major threat. Negative human-leopard interactions, particularly concerning leopards preying on domestic dogs, are being studied to find solutions. Analysis of leopard diet indicates a diverse range of prey species, with wild prey constituting the majority of their food source. In addition to these efforts, school and community awareness programs have been implemented, including art competitions and the establishment of resource rooms for Forest Guardian groups

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