Bengaluru concern: Human-wildlife conflicts soar 183%; elephants, big cats spark fear near villages, farms

Karnataka has witnessed a significant surge in human-wildlife conflict, escalating by 183% over five years, particularly in the southern Western Ghats. A study analyzing over 34,000 incidents revealed elephants, tigers, and leopards as primary contributors, with conflicts peaking during monsoon season. Habitat degradation due to invasive species and infrastructure development are exacerbating the issue, demanding strategic management interventions.