A black panther and a squirrel have been recorded for the first time in Rara National Park, the state-run national news agency RSS reported.

Cameras, installed by a team of researchers from Tribhuvan Universit to study mammalian wildlife, documented the rare presence of these species alongside other animals such as mountain bears, jackals, musk deer, and wild boars.

Mahesh Neupane, senior conservation officer at the park, confirmed the sightings to RSS, noting that while the park is home to diverse wildlife, this marks the first recorded instance of a black panther and squirrel entering the park's boundaries.

The research team, comprising doctoral student Tilak Thapa Magar, postgraduate researcher Bimal Raj Shrestha, and zoologists Bachan Prasai and Birkha Bahadur Rokaya, deployed camera traps across 40 locations in the park. These cameras operated for 21 days from October 22, under the authorization of the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and the Rara National Park Office.

The researchers said that camera trap technology is proving to be an effective tool for recording and studying wildlife activity in the park. Although Rara National Park has conducted bird population surveys, it has yet to undertake comprehensive counts of its wildlife, aquatic species, and plants.

Rara National Park, located in Nepal's Mugu and Jumla districts, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and biodiversity.

The park’s major attraction is the Rara Lake, the largest lake in Nepal, known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking surroundings. The park is home to several endangered species, including red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer, making it a critical habitat for conservation.

Rara National Park is also a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 200 bird species, including migratory and endemic varieties. The park offers panoramic views of the Himalayan peaks, especially during the winter, enhancing its allure.

Trekking enthusiasts are drawn to the Rara Lake trek, which winds through dense forests, remote villages, and serene landscapes, offering an immersive experience of Nepal’s wilderness.

With its ecological richness and natural splendor, Rara National Park continues to attract researchers and nature lovers, furthering efforts to understand and conserve its unique environment.