Distribution, Prey Selection, and Conservation Status of Common Leopard: Insights from District Sudhanoti, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Abstract

The common leopard (Panthera pardus) is a widely distributed yet vulnerable predator facing habitat loss, declining prey populations, and increasing human-wildlife conflict. This study investigates the distribution, dietary habits, and conservation challenges of the species in District Sudhanoti, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJ&K), Pakistan. Distribution was assessed using direct and indirect sign surveys (scats, pugmarks, prey remains), while dietary analysis was conducted via scat examination to identify prey composition. The study recorded leopard presence between 418–2016 m asl, with seasonal shifts in habitat use. Scat analysis identified 10 prey species, including seven domestic and three wild meso-mammals, with domestic livestock comprising 78.98% of the diet, particularly goat (28.29%) and dog (21.05%). Wild prey (21.01%) consumption was higher in winter (38.08%), while domestic animals dominated in summer (88.21%). Biomass consumption analysis confirmed greater reliance on livestock, increasing human-leopard conflict, with 95% of local respondents viewing leopards negatively. Conservation efforts should focus on livestock protection, habitat restoration, and community engagement to mitigate conflicts and ensure species survival. Future research should emphasize long-term monitoring and conservation-based conflict resolution strategies to sustain leopard populations in AJ&K.