21 snow leopards residing in Sikkim, reveals survey

GANGTOK, : A report on the snow leopard population assessment of State conducted by State Forest and Environment department in collaboration with WWF-India has revealed the presence of 21 snow leopards in the high-altitude regions of Sikkim. The report was officially released on Friday during the 50th Statehood Day celebrations at Paljor Stadium.

The survey, conducted as part of the all-India Snow Leopard Population Assessment of India (SPAI) in 2022, provides critical data on the distribution and habitat preferences of this elusive and endangered species.

The SPAI survey revealed that most of the snow leopard sightings occurred outside protected areas, particularly in the Lachen and Lachung reserve forests of northern Sikkim. The Sikkim Forest department builds upon these findings with a series of crucial policy recommendations aimed at strengthening snow leopard conservation efforts. These include enhanced awareness and sensitization programs for targeted audiences, strategies to manage the growing feral dog population within snow leopard habitats, and the development of collaborative partnerships with communities living close to snow leopard territories,the release mentions.

This is the first scientifically validated estimate of the snow leopard population in the State, confirming a density of 0.40 individuals per 100 square kilometres. The survey, which covered altitudes ranging from 3,500 to 6,000 metres, combined field expertise with advanced technology such as camera traps to assess snow leopard presence across potential habitats.

An unexpected highlight of the survey was the sighting of a Bengal tiger at an altitude of 4,140 metres, the highest recorded elevation 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,” said Dr. Rishi Kumar Sharma, head of Science and Conservation, Himalayas Program, WWF-India.

But, the report also emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and proactive measures to protect these animals from various threats such as habitat degradation and climate change. The report reveals that most snow leopard sightings occurred outside protected areas, indicating a shared habitat with local communities. This, Dr. Sharma said, presents a unique opportunity for collaboration between conservationists and stakeholders to develop sustainable practices that benefit both wildlife and the communities living in the snow leopard habitat.

Udai Gurung, CF (Wildlife) and nodal officer for the SECURE Himalaya Project, stressed the importance 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 stated.

The survey findings provide valuable insights into the distribution, habitat preferences and population dynamics of snow leopards in Sikkim. These insights will inform future conservation strategies and facilitate evidence-based decision-making to enhance the effectiveness of ongoing efforts, the department added.