Temporal Shifts in Leopard Habitat Use Hotspots in Relation to Two Decades of Urban Landscape Transformation: A GIS Based Study of Jhalana, Jaipur

Abstract

Rapid urbanization around the Jhalana Forest Reserve has altered habitat structure and may influence leopard distribution and movement patterns. This study assessed temporal changes in land use and land cover (LULC), habitat fragmentation, leopard habitat use, and anthropogenic pressures in the Jhalana landscape using GIS and remote sensing techniques. Multi-temporal satellite imagery (2004, 2014 and 2024) was analyzed to quantify landscape transformation. Results indicated a substantial decline in forest, grassland, and agricultural areas, while built-up land increased by 362.25%. Fragmentation metrics revealed increasing patch density, edge effects, and habitat isolation, accompanied by reduced patch size and connectivity. Leopard records were concentrated in large, well-connected habitat patches and declined in highly fragmented areas. Anthropogenic disturbances, including traffic, tourism, and settlement density, were highest in peripheral sectors and lowest in the core forest zone. The findings demonstrate that urban expansion and habitat fragmentation are key drivers affecting leopard habitat utilization and emphasize the need for habitat connectivity and sustainable landscape planning for long-term conservation.