Key facts
- Leopard sightings are now a daily occurrence in Delhi's Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary.
- The estimated leopard population has increased from 12-14 in 2022 to approximately 16.
- Repeated sightings of leopard pairs, usually rare, have been observed.
- Populations of spotted deer, wild boar, and peafowl have also risen significantly.
- Habitat improvements include over 200 water holes and matured plantations.
- These changes indicate a healthier and more robust ecosystem within the sanctuary.
Leopard sightings have become a frequent occurrence in Delhi's Asola Bhatti Wildlife Sanctuary, with forest officials attributing this trend to a significant increase in the big cat population and improvements in habitat conditions. Camera traps and field observations suggest the leopard population has grown from an estimated 12-14 animals in 2022 to around 16 currently. Notably, repeated sightings of leopard pairs, which are typically solitary, have excited officials.
Beyond leopards, the sanctuary has seen substantial increases in spotted deer and wild boar populations, along with a surge in peafowl numbers. Wildlife experts consider these species as indicators of habitat quality, and their growing presence suggests that food, water, and shelter are becoming more readily available. This ecological improvement is linked to habitat management efforts over several years, including the development of over 200 water holes and the maturation of tree plantations that now provide dense canopy cover.