Human-wildlife conflict in the Kingdom of Bhutan: Patterns of livestock predation by large mammalian carnivores

摘要: Abstract We examined predation activity throughout Bhutan by tiger ( Panthera tigris ), common leopard pardus snow Uncia uncia ) and Himalayan black bear Ursus thibetanus on a variety of livestock types using data gathered over the first two years (2003–2005) compensation scheme for losses. One thousand three hundred seventy five kills were documented, with leopards killing significantly more (70% all kills), than tigers (19%), bears (8%) (2%). About 50% cattle, about 33% horses, tigers, greater proportion horses predicted from availability. Examination cattle showed that killed smaller prey (e.g., calves), whereas larger bulls). Overall, was greatest in summer autumn which corresponded peak cropping agriculture; are turned out to pasture forest during season, subsequently, less well guarded at other times. Across Bhutan, high horse density low yak associated rates attack, but no relationship found cover or human population density. Several northern districts identified as ‘predation hotspots’, where proportions lost considerable, ratio reported relative abundance high. Implications our findings mitigating losses conserving large carnivores discussed.