As many as 90 endangered snow leopards have been recorded in Shey-Phoksundo National Park that spreads across 3,555 square kilometres in Dolpa and Mugu districts.
According to Bishwo Babu Shrestha, senior conservation officer serving the protected area, 90 snow leopards were found during the latest study of the species which is on the endangered species list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation, supported by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), conducted a detailed study and assessment of the snow leopard population in Shey-Phoksundo National Park from 2019 to 2022.
- A recent study conducted in Shey-Phoksundo National Park unveils the presence of 90 endangered snow leopards, marking a significant conservation milestone.
- Led by the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation and supported by the World Wildlife Fund, the study utilized advanced camera trap technology to survey the snow leopard population from 2019 to 2022.
- This groundbreaking research, revealed on World Wetland Day, highlights the park’s critical role in protecting endangered species and preserving biodiversity.
- Shey-Phoksundo National Park, established in 1984, boasts the highest density of snow leopards in Nepal, with its rugged terrain spanning 2,500 to 5,500 meters above sea level.
- Beyond snow leopards, the park is home to a diverse array of endangered species, including Himalayan tahr, goral, and blue sheep, as well as a rich avian diversity comprising over 200 bird species.
- Drawing approximately 4,000 tourists annually, the park’s centerpiece attraction is the majestic Shey-Phoksundo Lake, accessible after a two-day trek from Dunai, Dolpa’s district headquarters.
- Shey-Phoksundo National Park stands as a testament to Nepal’s commitment to conservation, showcasing the unparalleled beauty and biodiversity of its Himalayan landscapes.
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