The current state of snow leopard conservation in Pakistan

Abstract

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is a flagship species of Pakistan's high mountain ranges. About 100 snow leopards are thriving in the Hindu Kush, Karakoram, Himalaya, and Pamir mountains, covering 80,000km2 of the country, along with other sympatric carnivores and endangered wild goats and sheep. Although snow leopards are important components of the rich and unique mountain ecology, culture, and traditions, populations are declining due to conflict with the local agropastoral community. The snow leopard's conservation history in Pakistan dates back to the early 1960s. The understanding of snow leopard ecology and conservation needs in the country has increased over time but now needs to be examined in a larger context. This chapter outlines its conservation history and unique habitat in Pakistan, evaluates ongoing research and conservation efforts, and gives recommendations for the future.