Conservationists name ultra-rare leopard colour morph in Karnataka as ‘Sandalwood Leopard’

The recent identification and naming of an ultra-rare leopard colour morph as the ‘Sandalwood Leopard’ in Karnataka marks a significant moment for India’s biodiversity conservation efforts. This unique discovery, where the leopard exhibits an erythristic (reddish) hue instead of the typical tawny-yellow, has captivated conservationists and highlights the incredible genetic diversity within wildlife populations. Internationally, leopards with this specific colour morph are known as ‘Strawberry leopards’ and have been only sporadically recorded in isolated pockets of South Africa and Tanzania, making the Karnataka sighting even more extraordinary.

**Background Context:**

Colour morphs in animals are variations in pigmentation that arise due to genetic mutations. Unlike melanism (leading to black panthers) or albinism (complete lack of pigment), erythrism results in a reddish-brown or sandy coloration. This specific genetic anomaly is extremely rare in leopards. The existence of such a morph indicates a unique genetic lineage within the local leopard population, potentially influenced by environmental factors or a founder effect. The term ‘Sandalwood Leopard’ is a culturally resonant name, drawing parallels with Karnataka’s famous sandalwood trees, known for their distinct yellowish-brown wood, thereby giving the discovery a local identity and pride.

**What Happened:**

Conservationists and wildlife researchers in Karnataka identified this ultra-rare leopard through systematic surveys, likely involving camera trapping and field observations. The process of identification involves careful photographic documentation, genetic sampling (if feasible and non-invasive), and comparative analysis with existing records of leopard colour morphs globally. Once confirmed as a distinct erythristic variant, the decision to name it ‘Sandalwood Leopard’ was made, emphasizing its unique association with the region and differentiating it from the more generically termed ‘Strawberry leopards’ observed elsewhere.

**Key Stakeholders Involved:**

Several entities play crucial roles in such discoveries and subsequent conservation. **Conservation organizations and researchers** are at the forefront, conducting fieldwork, analysis, and advocating for protection. The **Karnataka Forest Department** is a primary stakeholder, responsible for managing protected areas, enforcing wildlife laws, and implementing conservation strategies. Their collaboration with researchers is vital for effective monitoring and protection. **Local communities** living around forest areas are often the first to encounter wildlife and can provide invaluable information; their involvement is critical for long-term conservation success. The **Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)** at the central level provides policy frameworks and funding, influencing conservation efforts across the country.

**Why This Matters for India:**

This discovery significantly enhances India's image as a mega-diverse country. India is home to approximately 7-8% of the world's recorded species, and the presence of such a rare genetic variant underscores the richness and uniqueness of its ecosystems. For conservation, it spotlights the need for robust protection of leopard habitats, not just for their numbers but also for their genetic diversity. Leopards (Panthera pardus) are apex predators and their health reflects the health of the entire ecosystem. The revelation of the ‘Sandalwood Leopard’ can boost ecotourism, though careful management is essential to prevent disturbance to the animal and its habitat. Furthermore, it opens new avenues for scientific research into leopard genetics, population dynamics, and adaptive evolution, potentially leading to more targeted conservation strategies.

**Historical Context and Constitutional Provisions:**

India has a long history of wildlife conservation, transitioning from a colonial era of hunting to a post-independence focus on protection. The **Wildlife Protection Act, 1972**, is a landmark legislation that provides a legal framework for the protection of wild animals, birds, and plants. Leopards are listed under **Schedule I** of this Act, granting them the highest level of protection, prohibiting hunting and trade. This discovery reinforces the importance of acts like the WPA. Constitutionally, the **42nd Amendment Act of 1976** added **Article 48A** to the Directive Principles of State Policy, mandating the state to