First-ever snow leopard census begins in Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve is embarking on a pioneering effort to count its snow leopard population, a move that underscores Nepal's commitment to wildlife conservation. This census represents the first formal attempt to quantify these magnificent creatures in the reserve's rugged terrain.

The deployment of 56 camera traps across key areas, from 3,200 to 5,000 meters above sea level, highlights the technical sophistication being employed. These devices, along with on-the-ground monitoring of footprints and droppings, will provide crucial data for understanding the elusive snow leopard's habitat and movement patterns.

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The main habitat of snow leopards is around the snowline. We have installed cameras in six blocks of Dhorpatan, ranging from 3,200 metres to 5,000 metres above sea level.

This initiative is particularly significant for Nepal, a nation deeply connected to its natural heritage. While international attention often focuses on the challenges of conservation, this census demonstrates proactive, on-the-ground action. The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, established in 1986, is a vital sanctuary for endangered species, and understanding the snow leopard population is key to ensuring its long-term survival. The reserve's history of conducting similar surveys, such as the red panda census a decade ago, shows a consistent dedication to scientific wildlife management.

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The census will be carried out based on camera-captured images, along with evidence such as footprints and droppings. Fifteen staff members and experts are involved in this campaign.