Jawai's leopard peace: Can Junnar learn from Rajasthan?

The Pune forest department is investigating the potential to replicate Rajasthan's Jawai model of human-leopard coexistence in Junnar, Maharashtra, where human-leopard conflicts are escalating. A delegation, including forest officials and experts, visited the Jawai leopard reserve on March 28-29 to study its unique methods for managing conflict amidst a high leopard population. Junnar, facing increased leopard presence near settlements, has seen experimental measures like leopard birth control. The Jawai region exemplifies coexistence, with leopards living near humans due to natural shelters, ample prey, and local cultural reverence for the animals. However, experts highlight critical differences, such as Junnar's leopards predominantly consuming poultry. This dietary habit, unlike Jawai's livestock and natural prey reliance, may be linked to increased leopard aggression and conflict. Habitat variations and population densities also add to the complexity of adapting the Jawai approach to Junnar's specific challenges, prompting further assessment before any action is taken.