Study of Tiger-Leopard Interaction and Factors Influencing the Tiger’s Habitat

Tiger and common leopard share their habitat, including its prey base. Current trends show that the number of adult tigers is increasing, on its way to meet the target of doubling the tiger population in Nepal by 2022. Further, recent data shows that forest coverage in Nepal is increasing. Meanwhile, common leopard population and conflict with human is also increasing. This project assesses the interaction of tiger and leopard in Chitwan and Shuklaphanta National Parks of Nepal. Additionally, as a developing country; infrastructure development and construction are increasing in Nepal – most of which occurs in forested areas. We aim to evaluate the impacts of such infrastructures on tiger behavior, habitat, and movement pattern. Finally, climate change is a global issue which affects all sectors, including floral and faunal diversity. This study will assess the impacts of climate change on future tiger habitat in Nepal.