The 11th International Snow Leopard Day was observed on Wednesday, emphasizing the urgent need to safeguard snow leopards and their habitats in the face of growing climate challenges. With only 12 countries globally home to this elusive species, the snow leopard is considered an indicator of a healthy mountainous ecosystem. This year's theme, 'Safeguarding Snow Leopard Habitats for Future Generations,' underscores the critical role of habitat protection in ensuring the survival of the species.

As part of the day's events, the Ministry of Forests and Environment organized several programs to raise public awareness, the state-owned national news agency RSS reported. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation unveiled a snow leopard survey report from the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, revealing the presence of 13 mature snow leopards. Conducted between April 4 and June 2, the survey recorded a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 24 snow leopards across 2,035 square kilometers in Taplejung district, a prime habitat for the species, RSS added.

The Department also shared its findings from the Dolpa region, where an estimated 90 snow leopards were recorded. In addition, a rare photo of a wild yak captured in Dolpa National Park was released during the event.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General of the Department, Dr. Ram Chandra Kandel, highlighted the impact of climate change on high-altitude regions, which has significantly reduced snow leopard habitats and led to a decline in their prey species. He noted that nearly 60% of the snow leopard's habitat lies outside protected areas, and these areas are becoming increasingly fragmented. Other challenges include illegal trapping, poisoning, difficult terrain, and limited resources for effective monitoring.

According to RSS, Dr Kandel mentioned that ongoing conservation efforts, including awareness campaigns and improved protection measures for local livestock, have contributed to a slight decrease in smuggling activities. He emphasized the importance of cooperation among the three tiers of government to address these challenges.

Forest and Environment Minister Ain Bahadur Shahi echoed the call for collaborative efforts, noting that the government is committed to revising laws to combat animal poaching. "The snow leopard is integral to Nepal's identity, and its conservation remains a government priority," RSS quoted Minister Shahi as saying.

Forest Secretary Dr. Deepak Kumar Kharal also acknowledged the critical support from local communities, security agencies, and conservation organizations in protecting this endangered species.

Nepal is home to an estimated 300 to 500 snow leopards, while the global population is believed to range between 4,000 and 6,500. Snow leopards are primarily found at altitudes of 540 to 5,000 meters above sea level and have been listed as a vulnerable species by the IUCN.

The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation has completed snow leopard surveys in other regions, including the Shey Phoksundo National Park in Dolpa, Humla's forest areas, the Manaslu Conservation Area, and Gauri Shankar. The findings from these surveys will be compiled to provide a comprehensive national census of the species, RSS further reported.