Logo

Snow leopards were captured in 41 grids (66%) out of the total 62 grids. 62 individual snow leopards were identified from the total of 2,703 images. Independent detections (298) of identified individuals were analyzed to estimate SPNP’s snow leopard populations. Based on the most parsimonious spatial capture-recapture model, an abundance of 90 (SE 8; range 78 -109) snow leopards were estimated with density of 2.21 snow leopards (SD 0.22) per 100 km2 in Shey- Phoksundo National Park. Overall population size of blue sheep in SPNP was 6167.1 (5542.4 - 6823.8) in 2022. Trend analysis using BBrecapture showed a positive linear trend in terms of both abundance and density over the period of 3 years. This study was the first intensive research carried out to understand the status of the snow leopard in SPNP. As such, it provides a baseline for snow leopard and prey abundance and density in and around SPNP.

The survey results also provide key information including estimated population, high-density pockets, etc for informed conservation and management. A single study may not capture the intricate complexities of species’ population dynamics and ecology, this provides key strategic guidance for improving conservation and management for long-term well-being of both people and nature.