The population of rare snow leopards in Himachal Pradesh’s high-altitude tribal regions has surged by an impressive 62 percent over the past four years, according to a newly released wildlife survey. This significant increase has excited conservationists and officials alike.
State Forest Department’s Wildlife Wing announced the population count, highlighting a rise from 51 in 2021 to 83 currently. The release of this survey coincided with the start of Wildlife Week on October 2, reflecting a commitment to ecological preservation.
The report reveals that the current population figure even exceeds the upper confidence estimate of 73 from the previous survey, suggesting potential expansions in snow leopard habitats. The study underscores the effectiveness of long-term conservation strategies that not only involve governmental efforts but actively engage local communities.
Conducted over the past year, the study employed a large-scale camera-trapping exercise across six strategic sites, totaling nearly 26,000 square kilometers. Locations such as Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and Pangi valley showed sightings of snow leopards, both within and beyond protected areas including Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and Great Himalayan National Park.
In addition to snow leopards, the survey recorded populations of prey species like blue sheep and Himalayan ibex, alongside other wildlife such as Himalayan wolves, brown bears, and leopards. This essential data collection reflects the rich biodiversity of the region.
Noteworthy findings from the survey include the first official sighting of Pallas’s cat in Kinnaur and the rediscovery of the woolly flying squirrel in Lahaul. These discoveries further establish that Himachal Pradesh is a critical biodiversity hotspot.
Officials attribute this successful survey to community involvement, highlighting the role of local youth and women from Kibber village in Spiti. Their contributions in camera trap deployments and data analysis were instrumental. Additionally, forest officers collaborated with villagers in field operations, optimizing the approach to wildlife monitoring.
Unlike the previous survey, which spanned three years, this comprehensive assessment reached completion within just one year. The efficient nature of the study reflects the commitment to ongoing conservation practices.
Moreover, the cost-effective methods adopted during this survey have established a scalable framework for long-term snow leopard monitoring in India. With this accomplishment, Himachal Pradesh becomes the first state in the country to conduct a second statewide snow leopard assessment, setting a precedent for wildlife conservation across India.
