India's snow leopard census: 718 spotted in first-ever estimation, majority roaming Ladakh

The Union Environment Ministry disclosed that India is home to an estimated 718 snow leopards. The data, presented during the National Board for Wildlife meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, stems from the first-ever 'Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India' (SPAI) conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) between 2019 and 2023.

The SPAI Program

Led by the WII, the SPAI program involved collaborative efforts from snow leopard range states and conservation partners, including the Nature Conservation Foundation, Mysuru, and WWF-India. This meticulous two-step framework covered over 70% of potential snow leopard habitats across the trans-Himalayan region, including Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.


Population Distribution and Estimation

The SPAI systematically evaluated the spatial distribution of snow leopards, incorporating habitat covariates. Camera traps were then strategically deployed in identified stratified regions, resulting in the estimation of snow leopard abundance. The comprehensive exercise covered 120,000 km² of crucial snow leopard habitat, with a total of 241 unique snow leopards photographed.

The data analysis revealed varying snow leopard populations in different states. Ladakh leads with an estimated 477 snow leopards, followed by Uttarakhand (124), Himachal Pradesh (51), Arunachal Pradesh (36), Sikkim (21), and Jammu and Kashmir (9).

Changing Landscape of Snow Leopard Research

Historically, the snow leopard range in India was undefined due to a lack of nationwide assessments. However, recent status surveys have significantly increased understanding, covering approximately 80% of the range compared to 56% in 2016.

Future Conservation Measures

The report emphasizes the establishment of a dedicated Snow Leopard Cell at WII under the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change. This cell would focus on long-term population monitoring, supported by well-structured study designs and consistent field surveys. Continuous monitoring is deemed essential for the species' long-term survival.

Conservation Recommendations

To maintain a vigilant approach, the report suggests adopting a periodic population estimation strategy, with assessments conducted every fourth year within the snow leopard range. Such regular evaluations are crucial for identifying challenges, addressing threats, and formulating effective conservation strategies.

With Ladakh at the forefront, India's snow leopard population of 718 is a testament to the successful collaboration between environmental authorities, researchers, and conservation partners. The SPAI program not only sheds light on the current status but also lays the foundation for sustained efforts in preserving the majestic snow leopards for future generations.