Despite covering only a small portion of global snow leopard habitat, Nepal is home to an impressive 10% of the world’s total snow leopard population, according to a recent nationwide survey conducted by WWF Nepal and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation.
The study found that 397 snow leopards roam Nepal’s Himalayan regions, representing a significant share of the global population estimated between 3,200 to 5,390. Nepal’s snow leopard habitat covers just 2% of the global range, yet hosts a disproportionately high number of these elusive big cats.
Snow leopards are found in 12 countries across Asia, but only a few have conducted comprehensive studies. Among them, China leads with an estimated 2,000–2,500 snow leopards, followed by Mongolia (953), India (718), Nepal (397), and Bhutan (134). These figures come from WWF Nepal and the global Snow Leopard Trust.
This means Nepal is fourth in the world in terms of snow leopard numbers—a remarkable feat considering its smaller geographic range.
Nine-Year Study Using Modern Methods
The population survey was carried out from 2015 to 2024 using advanced scientific tools such as camera traps and DNA analysis of scat samples. Fieldwork was conducted in seven snow leopard habitats, including Dolpa, Mustang, Manang, and other mountain districts.
This extensive project followed international standards set by the Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Program (GSLEP). It provides the first-ever verified nationwide count of snow leopards in Nepal.
Key Conservation Hurdles
While the high population count is encouraging, experts warn that nearly 60% of snow leopard habitat in Nepal lies outside protected areas, exposing the animals to various threats:
- Habitat fragmentation
- Human-wildlife conflict
- Illegal poaching
- Limited monitoring resources
- Harsh mountainous terrain
As a result, snow leopards are listed as “Vulnerable” on the IUCN Red List.
To address these challenges, Nepal’s Ministry of Forests and Environment has introduced a Snow Leopard Conservation and Action Plan (2024–2030). The plan outlines six priority areas and will cost an estimated NPR 1.78 billion.
Key goals include:
- Reducing human-snow leopard conflict
- Strengthening anti-poaching efforts
- Enhancing community-based conservation
- Expanding habitat connectivity and research
About 35% of the budget will go toward managing conflict with local communities, and 26% toward stopping wildlife crimes.
Western Nepal Holds the Highest Population
Among the regions surveyed, Dolpa stands out with around 90 snow leopards, making it Nepal’s top snow leopard zone. Overall, western Nepal has a higher population than the eastern regions, likely due to larger undisturbed habitats and more prey.
Dr. Ghanshyam Gurung, Country Representative of WWF Nepal, called the survey a “historic moment” in Nepal’s conservation history. “Despite being a small country, Nepal plays a big role in global snow leopard conservation,” he said.
The report not only offers solid data for better protection strategies but also highlights Nepal’s contribution to global biodiversity. With just 2% of the global habitat, housing 10% of the world’s snow leopards is a major conservation success story.
