GANGTOK: A recent survey conducted by the State Forest and Environment Department in collaboration with WWF-India has identified 21 snow leopards inhabiting the high-altitude regions of Sikkim. This report was unveiled during the 50th Statehood Day celebrations at Paljor Stadium on Friday. The evaluation is part of the all-India Snow Leopard Population Assessment of India (SPAI) carried out in 2022, which provides pivotal data regarding the distribution and habitat preferences of this elusive and endangered species.
The survey indicates that the majority of snow leopard sightings occurred outside protected areas, especially within the Lachen and Lachung reserve forests in northern Sikkim. In light of these findings, the Sikkim Forest Department plans to implement several key policy recommendations to strengthen conservation efforts. These strategies include enhanced awareness programs aimed at specific audiences, methods to manage the increasing feral dog population in snow leopard habitats, and building partnerships with local communities living near snow leopard territories.
This marks the first scientifically validated estimate of the snow leopard population in Sikkim, confirming a density of 0.40 individuals per 100 square kilometers. The survey, which covered altitudes between 3,500 to 6,000 meters, utilized both field expertise and advanced technologies such as camera traps to monitor snow leopard presence across potential habitats. Notably, the survey also recorded a Bengal tiger sighting at an elevation of 4,140 meters, the highest known record for the species in Sikkim.
“The estimate of 21 snow leopards in Sikkim is a heartening sign of the progress we have made through sustained conservation efforts,” stated Dr. Rishi Kumar Sharma, Head of Science and Conservation, Himalayas Program, WWF-India. However, the report stresses the continued need for vigilance and proactive measures to shield these animals from various threats, including habitat degradation and climate change. It highlights that many snow leopard sightings occurred outside protected areas, signaling shared habitats with local communities. Dr. Sharma emphasized this presents a unique opportunity for collaboration between conservationists and stakeholders to establish sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and the communities residing in snow leopard habitats.
Udai Gurung, CF (Wildlife) and the nodal officer for the SECURE Himalaya Project, underscored the significance of data-driven conservation. “Accurate population density data is crucial for understanding the health and distribution of snow leopards. With this information, we can prioritize resources, implement targeted interventions, and ensure the long-term survival of this iconic species,” he remarked. The survey’s findings will enrich our understanding of snow leopard distribution, habitat preferences, and population dynamics in Sikkim, guiding future conservation strategies and facilitating evidence-based decision-making to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing efforts.
Original Source: https://www.sikkimexpress.com/news-details/21-snow-leopards-residing-in-sikkim-reveals-survey
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