Human–Leopard Conflict and Coexistence: A Case Study from Gir Somnath, Gujarat, India

Globally, the escalation of human-wildlife conflict poses a severe threat to both biodiversity conservation and the livelihoods of rural communities. In the semi-arid landscapes of Western India, the proximity of human settlements to protected areas has created complex dynamics of co-existence and confrontation. This study assesses the diel and seasonal patterns of human-leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) conflict in the Gir Somnath district of Gujarat, utilising a comprehensive dataset spanning a decade (2014–2023). By integrating secondary records from the Gujarat Forest Department with primary field observations and community discussions, we identified critical spatio-temporal hotspots. Analysis reveals that regions like Gir Gadhada (29%) and Talala (18%) are particularly vulnerable due to their forest-fringe location. While winter saw a peak in 2023, the monsoon remains the most consistently hazardous season over the 10-year period. Chronobiological findings highlight a significant nocturnal bias, with most incidents occurring between 12:00 AM and 6:00 AM, a period when leopards frequently visit settlements or multiple-use zones in search of prey. The study advocates for a shift from traditional mitigation to adaptive conservation strategies, emphasising the importance of "relief" mechanisms and nocturnal vigilance to foster a balanced co-existence.