India Launches First Field Trial of Leopard Immunocontraception in Junnar

Times of India · environment

India has initiated its first field trial of leopard immunocontraception in Junnar, releasing two radio-collared female leopards after administering fertility control drugs. This experiment aims to assess if population control can reduce human-leopard conflict, a significant issue in the region. Forest officials will monitor the leopards' hormonal changes and reproductive success to determine the long-term viability of this reversible, vaccine-based management tool. The findings could inform a nationwide framework for conflict mitigation.