Leopards in India are relegated to a strange oblivion despite their big cat status, captivating beauty and mysterious ways. The few times they are reluctantly thrust into the spotlight are when human-leopard conflicts flare, often ending in devastating consequences for the leopard. This vastly misunderstood and harassed animal can be found across India, with an estimated population of about 13,000. Their habitat, however, is increasingly fragmented or disappearing, leading to more and more leopards finding refuge amidst human settlements. Seeing how stealthily they live and thrive around humans, it would be easy to assume that leopards, adept at adapting to changing environments, have found a way to coexist with humans. But in Leopard Diaries, Sanjay Gubbi dispels that myth and shines a light on the creature’s elusive ways, the several conservation challenges it faces and, ultimately, the need to protect the graceful cat.
Leopard Diaries is a captivating read that deftly mixes personal narrative with research insights and critical analysis of current challenges, drawn from Gubbi’s years of work on leopard research and conservation in Karnataka. While the book meanders a little in the early quarter, it shines when Gubbi begins talking about his personal experiences, providing a fascinating glimpse into the world of conservationists and the heartbreak and triumphs that come with the profession. His account towards the end of the book of a dramatic encounter with a trapped leopard in a school, particularly stands out.
This story is from the June 21, 2021 edition of India Today.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the June 21, 2021 edition of India Today.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
BJP's Big Paschim Test
On paper, the BJP-RLD tie-up is a winner for the NDA in west UP, though the INDIA bloc thinks otherwise. The BSP's entry with mixed candidates can unsettle both alliances
Why Gen V Matters
The Way The 210 Million-Strong Generation Viksit Bharat Casts Its Vote Will Determine The Outcome Of This Election As It Has In The Past
Heart Stopper
Cushions with tales of beauty, serenity, art and nature
THE NIPPON NARRATIVE
Say konnichiwa to good design and sayōnara to bad aesthetics, as this apartment in Bangalore is a lesson in how to use Japanese design effectively
RURAL RESPLENDENCE
This second home in a small village in Uttar Pradesh brings to life the beauty and simplicity of locally sourced materials
Curves in the Right Places
Arches may be taking over interior design, but how and where you place them in your home can make or mar the look of the room
Marvels in Mud
Here's how this humble material is changing the way we look at eco-friendly homes in India
DESIGN FOR THE AGES
Five homes, five distinct design styles that help decode how to curate age-appropriate spaces
TAKE FIVE
FROM RUGS TO CUSHIONS, THESE DECOR PIECES WILL GIVE YOUR INTERIORS AN INSTANT MAKEOVER THIS SEASON
TRENDY TABLESCAPES
At the turn of the season, three fashion labels throw a soiree that is stylish, suave and sophisticated