According to our research, deforestation in Java during the period from 2000 to 2008 resulted in an increasing number of Javan leopards venturing out of the forest.
Jakarta (ANTARA) - The forestry research center of the Ministry of Environment and Forestry has revealed that deforestation has led to a continual loss of habitat for Javan leopards (Panthera pardus melas), causing them to wander into human settlements.

"According to our research, deforestation in Java during the period from 2000 to 2008 resulted in an increasing number of Javan leopards venturing out of the forest," principal researcher at the research center, Professor Hendra Gunawan, said during a virtual discussion on Javan leopards, which was held on Tuesday.

Between 1993 and 2020, the research center has succeeded in identifying several factors that explain why Javan leopards have been venturing out of the forest and recording complete information for 172 out of 183 cases of ventured leopards, Gunawan said.

Based on that number, some dozen cases have been recorded of leopards venturing out of their habitat to prey on livestock.

"While the rescue team saved 45 leopards, 21 leopards were caught by locals, and another 19 leopards returned to the forest," Gunawan noted, adding that some others were slain.

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Translator: Muhammad Zulfikar, Suwanti
Editor: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga
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