KATHMANDU, Oct 23: The 11th International Snow Leopard Day is being observed today to raise public awareness about safeguarding snow leopards.
The snow leopard, which is found in only 12 countries around the world, is considered an indicator of a healthy mountainous ecosystem.
The theme of this year's day, 2024, is 'Safeguarding Snow Leopard Habitats for Future Generations.' This theme emphasizes the critical importance of protecting the natural habitats of snow leopards to ensure their survival and the health of mountain ecosystems.
The Ministry of Forest and Environment is marking the day by organizing several programs. The Ministry's Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation is releasing the results of a snow leopard survey conducted in the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area.
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Dr. Ram Chandra Kandel, Director General of the Department, stated that the snow leopard study report from Dolpa National Park will also be made public, and a photo frame featuring the wild yak, taken inside Dolpa National Park, will be unveiled.
He mentioned that climate change has affected the high mountainous regions more severely, reducing the habitat of snow leopards. He further explained that habitat loss has led to a decrease in their prey species.
"Nearly 60 percent of snow leopard habitats are outside the parks, and these habitats are being fragmented," he shared, adding, "Additionally, other challenges include trapping snow leopards, poisoning their food, geographical difficulties, lack of proper technology, insufficient human resources, and budget constraints for effective monitoring."
Pointing to the need for cooperation and coordination among the three levels of government for the conservation of snow leopards, Dr. Kandel said the Department has been conducting surveys to raise awareness among the local community, monitor the situation, and identify challenges and solutions.
"As a result, there has been a slight decrease in smuggling," he said. The Department has also been helping to build safe shelters to protect local sheep, goats, and birds from snow leopards.
Snow leopards are usually found at altitudes between 540 and 5,000 meters above sea level. The IUCN has listed snow leopards as globally threatened on the Red List.
It is estimated that there are about 300 to 500 snow leopards in Nepal and about 4,000 to 6,500 worldwide, making them a vital part of the mountain ecosystem's health.
