Survey reveals presence of 120 Snow Leopards in Dolpa

KATHMANDU: The findings of the latest snow leopard survey were unveiled today, shedding light on the significant presence of these majestic creatures in Dolpa.

The survey, conducted systematically using camera traps over a period of five months from April to August 2023, confirmed the existence of a notable number of snow leopards outside the protected areas of Dolpa, particularly in the eastern region outside the Shey-Phoksundo National Park.

With support from the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Nepal, the survey estimated a snow leopard density of 1.5 per 100 square kilometers, resulting in the confirmation of 30 snow leopards in the study area.

Comparatively, a similar survey conducted four years ago within the confines of the park had estimated a higher density of 2.2 snow leopards per 100 square kilometers, totaling 90 snow leopards within the protected area.

Consequently, the total count of snow leopards in Dolpa has now risen to 120, marking the highest recorded number in Nepal, as per the survey results.

Snow leopards, characterized as rare, endangered, and protected wildlife, inhabit the remote and harsh environments of high mountains.