Status and distribution of leopards (Panthera pardus) were determined by using presence/absence and relative abundance statistics within different conflict zones (low, medium and high) of Pauri Garhwal. Leopard signs such as scats, scraps/track and prey species tracks were collected systematically on selected trails in each conflict zone. Trails were monitored during rainy, winter and summer seasons. A total of 140 scats were collected and average scats encounter rate is varying across the conflict categories and was highest (1.52/km2) in high conflict areas. Data suggests that frequency of leopard visit in high conflict areas is relatively high during rainy season whereas visits were less frequent during winter and summer seasons.

Distribution of wild prey specie was determined by using track signs and camera trap methods. Among wild prey species, wild pig (Sus scrofa), barking deer (Muntiacus muntjak) and porcupine (Hystrix indica) were recorded from all conflict areas and their relative abundance is low in all categories in comparison to densities reported in various other Protected Areas.

Camera-traps were used intensively in high and low conflict areas to record information on current population and sex ratio of leopards. Two camera traps were set with 180 trap-nights within 15 km2 study area under each conflict category.  Estimated leopard population in high conflict areas is around 3 to 4/10 km2 and whereas 1 to 3/10 km2 animals were recorded in low and medium conflict zones.  Photographs of other species recorded were of Himalayan black bear (Selenarctos thibetanus) and red fox (Vulpes vulpes).

A total of 120 scats (40 scats in each category) were analyzed and prey items were identified by macro analysis of undigested portion present in scats. Large proportion (> 75%) of prey for leopard includes domestic species such as livestock and dogs in all categories. Rodents and birds (9.07%) were also a part of the leopard’s diet. Reptile remains were present in 2.3% of the samples.

All the places where humans (n=6) were killed by leopards between September 2003 to July 2004 were visited. Data were recorded with respect to sex and age of victims, habitat type, timing of the day and other factors. A female having two cubs was sighted from two incident sites where people were killed by leopard.

We also attempted to see the feasibility of using Carnivore Survey Disc for monitoring leopards in this area.