A Review of Bears in Himachal Pradesh: Distribution, Conflict with Human and their Mitigation Strategies

Abstract

The existence of bears in Himachal Pradesh contributes significantly to the region's biodiversity. However, rising confrontations between bears and people pose substantial concerns. In Himachal Pradesh; Himalayan brown bears are reported in 10 protected areas. The Asiatic black bear is often distributed at elevations of 70 to 3000m asl. Recorded data on the presence of Asiatic black bears in Lahaul Valley, Rupi-bhaba WLS, Daranghati wildlife sanctuaries Himachal Pradesh, and genetic analysis identifies 307 unique Black bear, with the highest numbers in Kinnaur (n=90) and Kullu (n=76). Intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence conflict occurrence: older male brown bears often prey on younger conspecifics, particularly cubs. Younger bears and females with cubs are more likely to be near human settlements to protect themselves from older males. Extrinsic drivers like anthropogenic food sources and habitat loss from human activities. Climate change also influences the occurrence of Himalayan brown bears as they mostly prefer places with relatively low minimum and maximum surface temperatures during the hottest (7 to 12°C) and coldest (-6 to -1°C) months., The wettest quarter was most associated with brown bear incidence between 45mm and 85mm.Himalayan brown bear favors regions with little permanent snow or ice, and their probability of occurring significantly decreases when snow or ice levels exceed 5%, also Climate change may shorten hibernation, and Rapid development leads to habitat degradation and increased human-bear conflicts. The Himalayan brown bears are the most commonly recorded animal to cause livestock harm. Because of the secretive character of Himalayan brown bears and Asiatic black bears and the rough terrain, it has received little research attention. There is limited information on the species distribution ranges, with only a few range reports and short-term research on bear-human interaction leading to a lack of scientific knowledge needed for conservation and habitat management.