Why is it in the news?

• India’s leopard population increased by 8% from 2018 to 2022, rising from 12,852 to 13,874 individuals, according to a report by Environment Ministry.
• The survey covered 20 states and focused on about 70% of the expected leopard habitat, including tiger reserves and protected forest areas.

More about the news

• Madhya Pradesh reported the highest number of leopards, with 3,907, followed by Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, each reporting over 1,000 animals.
• Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal collectively saw a 150% rise in leopard numbers, reaching 349 animals.
• Uttarakhand experienced a 22% decline in leopard numbers, attributed to poaching and human-wildlife conflict.
• The sharp rise in leopard numbers reported in northeastern states was attributed to improved survey methods rather than an actual increase in population.
• Leopards are adaptable and can be found in villages and even cities, with conflicts arising due to their predation on cattle.
• Habitat conservation efforts, particularly in tiger reserves, also benefit leopard populations.