Decades after Snow Leopard Trust Founder Helen Freeman’s work at Woodland Park Zoo inspired her commitment to protecting this iconic species, we carry her legacy forward by ensuring a future for snow leopards in the wild, while also collaborating with zoos around the world.
Horses are integral to the livelihood and culture of herding communities who coexist with snow leopards. Last year, one of our dedicated community partners in Mongolia, Enkhburen (Buren) Nyam, experienced the loss of a foal to a snow leopard attack. Both wolves and snow leopards pose a threat to young horses.
An initial look at our camera trap data indicates that at least six snow leopard cubs were born in Tost Nature Reserve during 2023!
We all love photos of playful snow leopard cubs traipsing behind mom, jumping on her and wrestling their siblings. However, these endearing scenes only emerge after months of development. Born blind and helpless, the cubs remain hidden in their den for the first few months, gradually gaining strength before venturing into the outside world. Mom must provide all their nourishment and protection during this time – no simple feat, especially when she still has to hunt for her own food. These first few months are busy for a new snow leopard mom!
A friendly flower photography competition during a recent Snow Leopard Trust eco-camp was an opportunity for students to learn more about Kyrgyzstan’s mountain ecosystem. If you’re looking for environmental education opportunities, many activities can be replicated in your backyard!
Snow Leopard Trust’s India Program based at the Nature Conservation Foundation, conducted a pilot camera trap survey across two valleys in the Great Himalayan National Park in the second half of last year. Cameras were set up along a gradient from 2500 to 4500 meters in an attempt to determine the elevation range where snow leopards and common leopards overlap and potentially compete for resources.
Last week, a select group of Snow Leopard Trust staff, leaders, and board members from all over the world gathered to discuss strategies for improving global conservation practices. Fueled by a passion to make a difference for snow leopards and the people who share their habitat, we envision a world where ethical, fair and inclusive nature conservation efforts are supported and led by Indigenous peoples and local communities.
Feral dogs attacked the ibex above which took refuge in a river. After several hours of struggle, it managed to escape. Many others are not so lucky. Growing populations of feral dogs in snow leopard habitat are a rapidly emerging threat to snow leopards, livestock, and people.
The third Friday in May is Endangered Species Day. It’s a day to celebrate, learn more about and get involved in the herculean efforts to protect threatened and endangered wildlife worldwide. Since we’ve had an influx of new supporters, we’d like to share more about our ever-evolving work to protect snow leopards for future generations.
Snow Leopard Trust’s citizen-ranger program in Kyrgyzstan has been crucial in combating illegal wildlife trade. Building on this success, we are expanding the program to Mongolia and Pakistan to protect even more snow leopards across their vast habitat.
