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Species In News: Snow Leopard

Posted on July 25, 2022 by admin1  762

In News

  • Recently, a study by the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) on snow leopards has thrown up interesting insights on the elusive mountain cat and its prey species.  

About Snow leopard

  • Scientific Name: Panthera uncia.
  • Habitat: Cold High Mountains.
    • These are found in 12 countries including China, Bhutan, Nepal, India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Russia & Mongolia.
    • China has the world’s largest snow leopard population.
  • Diet: 
    • Carnivore & hunt blue sheep, Argali wild sheep, ibex, marmots, pikas, hares, etc.
  • Features:
    • One of the world’s most elusive cats & are perfectly equipped to thrive in extreme, high-elevation habitats.
    • Insulated with thick white-grey coats spotted with large black rosettes & wide, fur-covered feet act as natural snowshoes. The tail helps in balancing and also covers the body while sleeping.
    • Shy & rarely seen in the wild.
  • Threats:
    • Increased conflict due to expansion of human settlement & livestock grazing.
    • Poaching for trade in body parts and fur.
    • Climate change & shrinkage in habitat.
  • IUCN: Vulnerable
  • Schedule I: Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Snow Leopard Day

  • International Snow Leopard Day is observed on 23rd October.
  • Aim: To raise awareness on conservation and protection of snow leopards.
  • Background: The day commemorates the anniversary of the Bishkek Declaration and celebrates this endangered cat and raises awareness for its conservation and protection. 
    • It was in 2013, when political leaders from 12 countries came together to endorse the ‘Bishkek Declaration’ on the conservation of snow leopards.

Source: TH

 
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