Tue Jan 14 00:03:00 UTC 2025: ## Most Leopard Attacks in Himachal Pradesh Non-Predatory, Study Finds
**Bengaluru, January 14, 2025** – A new study on human-leopard conflict in Himachal Pradesh reveals that the majority of leopard attacks on humans are non-predatory and result in minor injuries. The 11-year study, “Charting risk pathways of leopard attacks on people: A decision tree approach,” documented 344 attacks. Researchers found that 74% were non-predatory, causing only minor harm.
Predatory attacks, accounting for only 7% of the total, were more likely to target adolescents under 15, who faced a significantly higher risk of severe injury or death due to their smaller size. These adolescents were nearly 88% more likely to suffer fatal or grievous injuries compared to adults.
The study, led by Shweta Shivakumar, also highlighted the significant psychological impact on victims. Over half reported experiencing fear, anxiety, and behavioral changes, disrupting daily routines and leading to avoidance of outdoor activities like farming and school commutes.
Furthermore, the research revealed a socioeconomic disparity. Sixty-six percent of victims were from low-income families, who are more exposed to risk due to their reliance on outdoor activities for livelihood such as collecting fodder, grazing livestock, and firewood gathering. The limited financial resources of these families further hinders their recovery from such incidents.
Ms. Shivakumar emphasized the need for better support for these vulnerable families affected by human-leopard conflict. The study underscores the need for targeted interventions focusing on both preventative measures and financial assistance to mitigate the impact of these encounters, even those resulting in minor injuries.
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