The population of rare snow leopards in Himachal Pradesh’s high-altitude tribal regions has grown by an impressive 62 per cent over the past four years, according to a newly released wildlife survey. This significant rise reflects the success of conservation initiatives aimed at protecting this elusive species.
The latest count, which stood at 51 in 2021, has increased to 83, officials from the state Forest Department’s Wildlife Wing announced on Friday. The survey was conducted over the last year and highlights the effectiveness of long-term strategies to safeguard these majestic animals.
Released on the first day of Wildlife Week (October 2–8), the report emphasized that the count excluded cubs and exceeded the upper confidence estimate of 73 from the previous survey. This suggests a possible expansion of habitats, which could be vital for the snow leopards’ long-term survival.
The comprehensive study involved a large-scale camera-trapping exercise across six diverse sites, covering nearly 26,000 sq km. Snow leopards and their habitats were documented in areas including Lahaul-Spiti, Kinnaur, and the Pangi valley. Remarkably, the survey recorded sightings not only within protected areas like Kibber Wildlife Sanctuary and Great Himalayan National Park but also in outside territories, indicating a broader distribution of these animals.
In addition to snow leopards, the survey documented populations of essential prey species like blue sheep, Himalayan ibex, and musk deer. Other mammals spotted included Himalayan wolves, brown bears, leopards, red foxes, and martens that inhabit the same regions.
Notably, the survey resulted in the first official sighting of Pallas’s cat in Kinnaur and marked the rediscovery of the woolly flying squirrel in Lahaul, underlining the rich biodiversity present in Himachal Pradesh.
Officials credited community involvement as a crucial factor driving the success of the survey. Local youth and women from Kibber village in Spiti played an active role in deploying camera traps and conducting data analysis. Forest officers collaborated closely with villagers, demonstrating a united front for conservation efforts. Remarkably, this survey, unlike the previous one which took three years, was completed in just one year.
Experts noted that the cost-effective methods employed in this survey have established a scalable framework for long-term snow leopard monitoring in India. With these achievements, Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to conduct a second statewide snow leopard assessment, setting an example for other regions.
This growth in the snow leopard population reflects not only successful conservation strategies but also the critical role of community engagement. By fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility, locals have contributed significantly to the study while supporting wildlife conservation efforts.
Snow leopards are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with an estimated global population totaling fewer than 7,000 individuals. The increase in numbers in Himachal Pradesh presents a positive trend, emphasizing the need for sustained conservation efforts.
Stakeholders remain hopeful that these results will inspire further initiatives across India, creating a network of support for the snow leopards and their ecosystems. Looking forward, conservationists aim to establish additional protective measures and engage more local communities, ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive.
