Ladakh's Snow Leopards: A Conservation Success Story

A study by Ladakh's Department of Wildlife Protection reveals 477 snow leopards in the region, representing 70% of India's population. Researchers highlight coexistence with human communities and the economic benefits from tourism. The study provides a methodology for conservation applicable across Asia's snow leopard habitats.

Ladakh is home to 477 snow leopards, according to a study by the union territory's Department of Wildlife Protection. It represents almost 70% of India's big cat population. Researchers assessed numbers and distribution across an area of 59,000 square kilometers, finding leopards occupied 47,500 square kilometers. Published in PLOS One, the study sheds light on their coexistence with human communities due to economic benefits from tourism.

The research highlights a conservation model sustaining some of the highest global snow leopard densities. Adaptation and upscaling of this model across their range are recommended by experts from the Wildlife Institute of India and National Tiger Conservation Authority. Tracking these elusive animals is challenging due to their shy nature and rugged habitat preferences.

Using footprints, feces, scratches, and over 900 camera traps with scent lures, researchers identified individual leopards by their unique forehead markings. Observations show high densities in Hemis National Park and Leh, with resource-rich grasslands supporting larger leopard populations. The study helps in forming a national photo library to monitor poaching and trafficking.

(With inputs from agencies.)