The snow leopard census in India carried out between 2019 and 2023, disclosed a total of 718 snow leopards in the country. This extensive survey encompasses more than 70% of their likely range, signifying a notable augmentation in initial data for 80%, in contrast to the 56% recorded in 2016.
The outcomes of this study form a pivotal groundwork for conservation initiatives, offering valuable perspectives on the endangered species’ distribution throughout its Indian habitat.
Aim of the Report
- Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India (SPAI) Program.
- First-ever scientific exercise
- Conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) with collaboration from snow leopard range states and conservation partners.
India's snow leopard census, conducted from 2019 to 2023, revealed a population of 718 snow leopards in India. This covers over 70% of their potential range, marking an increase in preliminary information for 80% compared to 56% in 2016. The survey's findings serve as a crucial… pic.twitter.com/GtWMIOb7ap
— MyGovIndia (@mygovindia) January 31, 2024
Key Points
Population Assessment
- SPAI was conducted from 2019 to 2023.
- 718 snow leopards were reported in India.
- Collaboration with Nature Conservation Foundation and WWF-India.
Geographical Coverage
- SPAI covered over 70% of the snow leopard range in India (approx. 120,000 km²).
- Including UTs of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir, and states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
Two-Step Framework
Spatial Distribution Evaluation:
- Occupancy-based sampling approach.
- Surveyed 13,450 km of trails.
- Camera traps deployed at 1,971 locations for 180,000 trap nights.
- 241 unique Snow leopards were photographed.
- Occupancy was recorded in 93,392 km², with an estimated presence in 100,841 km².
Abundance Estimation:
- Used camera traps in identified stratified regions.
- Estimated population of 718 snow leopards in different states/UTs.
Population Distribution
- Ladakh (477), Uttarakhand (124), Himachal Pradesh (51), Arunachal Pradesh (36), Sikkim (21), J & K (9).
Research Attention
- Before 2016, one-third (ca. 100,347 km²) of the range received minimal research attention.
- Recent status surveys increased understanding, providing preliminary information for 80% of the range (about 79,745 km²), compared to 56% in 2016.
Recommendations
- Establishment of a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at WII under MoEFCC.
- Focus on long-term population monitoring with well-structured study designs and consistent field surveys.
- States and UTs advised to consider a periodic population estimation approach (every 4th year) in the Snow leopard range.
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