The snow leopard, scientifically known as Panthera uncia, plays a vital role as a top predator within its natural habitat, which spans across the mountainous landscapes of Central Asia. Its presence serves as a health indicator of the ecosystems it inhabits, as it regulates populations of herbivores such as blue sheep and Siberian ibex, protecting grasslands from overgrazing.
However, the snow leopard faces threats due to loss of natural prey species, human conflict, and illegal trade of its fur and bones. It is currently listed as vulnerable under the IUCN List of Threatened Species, Appendix I of CITES, and Schedule-I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
A Study on Habitat Usage by Snow Leopards
Stressed upon lately, a study executed by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies delved into the connection between habitat uses by the snow leopard, Siberian ibex, and blue sheep. The research aimed to comprehend how predators use their habitat in the presence or absence of their prey species, and vice versa.
The study revealed that the detection possibility of a snow leopard increased when areas were populated by its prey species. However, if snow leopards were present, the likelihood of detecting prey species lessened. The study also noted that, contrary to assumptions, both species were not likely to be detected together.
It concluded that habitat variables such as barren area, grassland, aspect, slope, and proximity to water were primary determinants of habitat use for both snow leopards and their prey. Understanding these unique interactions can support better conservation and management plans for the snow leopard and its prey in the Spiti Valley ecosystem.
The National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS)
Serving as the driving force behind this study, the NMHS is a Central Sector Grant-in-aid Scheme designed to address critical issues related to conservation and sustainable management of natural resources in India’s Himalayan Region. Its jurisdiction extends over 10 fully Himalayan states such as Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura, Uttarakhand, and partially into the hill districts of Assam and West Bengal.
The NMHS has multiple primary objectives, including fostering conservation and sustainable resource management, enhancing alternative livelihoods and regional economic well-being, controlling pollution, augmenting human capacities, and strengthening climate-resilient infrastructure.
Conservation Efforts for Snow Leopards in India
In recognizing the crucial role snow leopards play within their ecosystems, the Indian Government has designated it as a flagship species for the high-altitude Himalayas. This recognition has triggered numerous initiatives aimed at protecting the species.
For instance, the HimalSanrakshak community volunteer program was launched in October 2020 to aid in their protection. Another major initiative, Project Snow Leopard, which commenced in 2009, promotes inclusive and participatory approaches to conserve both the snow leopards and their habitat.
International partnerships are also in place, with India being a part of the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Programme since 2013. Other efforts include the conservation breeding programme at Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park, Darjeeling, West Bengal, and the SECURE Himalaya project, funded by the Global Environment Facility and United Nations Development Programme. This project aims to conserve high altitude biodiversity and reduce the dependency of local communities on the natural ecosystem.
The collaborative efforts under all these initiatives signify India’s commitment towards securing the survival of this magnificent species and maintaining the ecological balance of the high-altitude Himalayas.
