Snow leopard survey begins in Mustang

By Hari Krishna Sharma,Muktinath (Mustang), Nov. 30: A survey to assess the population and condition of snow leopards, often called the 'queen of the mountains', has begun in Mustang.

The Jomsom unit of the Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP) has installed 15 cameras across high-altitude areas of Baragung Muktikshetra Rural Municipality to study the species’ habitat, diet and numbers.

Although there is no confirmed data on the exact number of snow leopards in Mustang, the cameras have been placed in locations where the species was previously sighted and where livestock losses have been reported, according to Rajesh Gupta, Chief of the ACAP Jomsom Office.

“It is easier to study snow leopards in winter, but it is important to understand their behaviour in both summer and winter seasons,” Gupta said. Earlier, ACAP had also installed cameras in May and June to observe wildlife activity during the warmer months.

This time, the cameras have been installed in collaboration with BIOCOS-Nepal, a non-governmental organisation. The devices will remain in place for two months, recording the movement of snow leopards and other wildlife in the morning, afternoon and evening. 

ACAP informed that the heavy snowfall during this season forces the animals to move towards settlements and sheds in search of food, and the cameras will help monitor their routes, behaviour and habitat use.

BIOCOS-Nepal programme assistant Buddhi Prasad Gurung and conservation assistant Dipak Oli have been mobilised for camera installation and habitat assessment.

The snow leopard survey, which began in Baragung Muktikshetra, will also cover Gharapjhong Rural Municipality, Thasang Rural Municipality and the upper Mustang areas of Lo-Ghekar Damodarkunda and Lo Manthang rural municipalities.

Snow leopards are found in only 12 countries worldwide, including Nepal, and are considered an indicator of a healthy Himalayan environment. Their habitat is home to a rich diversity of prey species. However, researchers believe that climate change and forest fires have increasingly affected their core habitat.

Snow leopards, known for their elusive nature, typically inhabit elevations between 3,500 and 5,500 metres above sea level.