Snow Leopard Population in China’s Sanjiangyuan Region

The Sanjiangyuan area in Qinghai province, China, is a vital habitat for snow leopards. Recent research indicates that this region is home to approximately 1,000 snow leopards, representing 11 to 21 per cent of the global population. This finding marks the importance of China in the conservation of this endangered species. The Sanjiangyuan region is critical as it contains the headwaters of three major rivers – the Yellow, the Yangtze, and the Mekong.

Significance of Sanjiangyuan for Snow Leopards

Sanjiangyuan is crucial for global snow leopard conservation. The area is estimated to encompass 60 per cent of the snow leopard’s habitat. The high density of snow leopards is attributed to the large population of bharal, or blue sheep, which constitutes over 80 per cent of their diet. The bharal density in this region is among the highest globally.

Research Methodology

Researchers combined and standardised camera trap survey data from twelve sites, collected by four organisations between 2015 and 2021. This data covered an area of 360,000 square kilometres on the Tibetan Plateau. The study calculated an average snow leopard density of 0.90 per 100 square kilometres, estimating a population size of 1,002 individuals.

Population Estimates

The research provided conservative estimates of snow leopard populations in two defined survey regions, yielding figures of 971 and 978 individuals. Overall, the population could range from 755 to 1,341 snow leopards, with a likely mean of 1,000 animals. This estimation is for conservation strategies.

Conservation Status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) downgraded the snow leopard’s status from ‘Endangered’ to ‘Vulnerable’ in 2017. This decision was based on estimated population sizes using ecological parameters. However, there are concerns regarding potential biases in these estimations, leading to controversy surrounding the downgrading.

Importance of About Population Dynamics

About the population status and factors influencing snow leopards is essential for effective conservation planning. Protecting their habitats, which include alpine, subalpine, and semi-arid ecosystems, is critical for their survival. The research aims to establish a framework for rapid large-scale population estimations to enhance conservation efforts.

Future Conservation Efforts

The study seeks to contribute to more efficient conservation strategies by providing a robust estimation framework. This approach will aid in addressing the challenges faced by snow leopards and ensure the protection of their habitats.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Examine the role of snow leopards in maintaining ecological balance in their habitat.
2. Critically discuss the significance of the Sanjiangyuan region for biodiversity conservation in China.
3. Estimate the impact of climate change on the habitats of snow leopards in the Tibetan Plateau.
4. Point out the challenges faced in the conservation of apex predators like the snow leopard in mountainous ecosystems.

Answer Hints:

1. Examine the role of snow leopards in maintaining ecological balance in their habitat.

1. Snow leopards are apex predators, controlling prey populations like bharal, which helps maintain healthy ecosystems.
2. By regulating herbivore numbers, they prevent overgrazing, promoting vegetation growth and biodiversity.
3. They contribute to the balance of their habitat by influencing the distribution and behavior of prey species.
4. Healthy populations of snow leopards indicate a stable ecosystem, serving as a barometer for environmental health.
5. Their presence supports a diverse range of species, enhancing overall ecosystem resilience.

2. Critically discuss the significance of the Sanjiangyuan region for biodiversity conservation in China.

1. Sanjiangyuan is home to 1,000 snow leopards, representing portion of the global population.
2. The region encompasses headwaters of major rivers, crucial for both aquatic and terrestrial biodiversity.
3. It hosts a high density of bharal, which supports the snow leopard population and contributes to ecological balance.
4. Sanjiangyuan’s diverse ecosystems include alpine and semi-arid environments, encouraging various species.
5. Conservation efforts in this region are vital for protecting not only snow leopards but also other endemic species.

3. Estimate the impact of climate change on the habitats of snow leopards in the Tibetan Plateau.

1. Climate change leads to habitat degradation, affecting snow leopards’ prey availability and distribution.
2. Rising temperatures can alter snow and ice patterns, impacting the alpine ecosystems they rely on.
3. Changes in vegetation due to climate shifts may reduce suitable habitats for both snow leopards and bharal.
4. Increased human encroachment due to climate-induced migration can lead to habitat fragmentation.
5. Overall, climate change poses threat to the long-term survival of snow leopards in the region.

4. Point out the challenges faced in the conservation of apex predators like the snow leopard in mountainous ecosystems.

1. Habitat loss due to human activities, including agriculture and infrastructure development, threatens their survival.
2. Human-wildlife conflict arises from livestock predation, leading to retaliatory killings of snow leopards.
3. Climate change impacts their habitat, prey availability, and overall ecosystem stability.
4. Limited funding and resources for conservation programs hinder effective management and protection efforts.
5. Lack of awareness and support from local communities can impede conservation initiatives.