Bhutan Announces Milestone Achievement In Snow Leopard Numbers
September 20, 2023
Bhutan, the Himalayan kingdom known for its commitment to environmental preservation, has reported a remarkable 40% increase in the population of snow leopards.
Image by luxstorm from Pixabay
The snow leopard, often referred to as the "ghost of the mountains," has been facing a perilous decline in numbers across its range due to habitat loss and poaching.
Bhutan, however, has stood as a beacon of hope for this elusive big cat.
The presence of 134 snow leopards has been confirmed in Bhutan by the National Snow Leopard Survey. This represents a 39.5% increase from the country’s first survey in 2016, when 96 individuals were counted.
Using 310 camera trap stations, the survey found an overall density of 1.34 snow leopards per 100 km sq, which was comparatively higher in the west than in central and eastern Bhutan, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reported.
Snow leopards were also recorded in several new locations.
"The increase in snow leopard numbers is yet another milestone achievement for Bhutan’s conservation journey. It clearly demonstrates the government's leadership and the conservation ethos of the highland communities," said Chimi Rinzin, the Country Director for WWF-Bhutan.
"WWF is fully cognizant of the challenges of increasing conflict, and we will strive towards addressing this issue to sustain the future of snow leopards while safeguarding the livelihoods of the herder communities."
Learn more about the elusive snow leopard in the video below.
Click Here For The Most Popular On Sunny Skyz
These Cat Reactions To Owners Calling Them Through Security Cameras Are Absolutely Hilarious
Kentucky Nurse Saves Drunk Raccoon With CPR After Dumpster Mishap
Shoulder Labrum Tear Symptoms And The Causes Behind Them
'Everyone Gets A Kick Out Of It': Baby Born At McDonald’s Parking Lot Has Perfect Nickname
The Mechanical Nurse At Guy’s Hospital Is Equal Parts Creepy And Brilliant
Dad And His Dog Share Breakfast Together Every Morning — And It’s The Sweetest Routine
Epic ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’ Flashmob Takes Over the Streets of Paris
Texas Cheerleaders Perform Emotional 9/11 Tribute That Brings Crowd To Tears
FDNY Honors Bride Whose Father Died On 9/11 With Touching Wedding Surprise
Honey Badger Picks Fight With Elephant, Gets Hilariously Booted Away
Tiny Soccer Rivals Choose Hugs Over Competition