Leopard Predation Near Mumbai Could Reduce Rabies Deaths, Study Suggests

A modeling study around Mumbai's 104 sq km Sanjay Gandhi National Park estimates leopards kill about 1,500 stray dogs per year, which could prevent roughly 1,000 dog bites and 90 rabies deaths annually and save about $18,000 in dog-management costs. But results are model-based, not an experimental test, and leopards near cities can still pose risks; the real impact varies by proximity to the park.