Archive · 18 Aug 2025
Snow Leopards Thrive in Jammu and Kashmir Year-Round
Scientists have confirmed that snow leopards live and breed year-round in Jammu and Kashmir, after years of believing they were just passing through.
They used cameras to take pictures of the snow leopards in their habitat.
They found at least 12 adults and a mother with cubs, which means the population is growing.
This area is also home to other animals, and conservationists are working with local communities to protect the snow leopards and their habitat, but also recognizing threats to their existence.
They're also holding workshops to teach people about protecting the animals and how to live with them.
A new study confirms year-round presence and breeding of snow leopards in Jammu and Kashmir.
Camera trapping identified at least 12 adult snow leopards and a breeding population in Kishtwar.
The study documented 16 other mammal species, highlighting the region's biodiversity.
Local communities face challenges like livestock depredation, leading to conflict.
Conservation efforts include outreach workshops and landscape-level strategies for habitat preservation.
- Who
- Researchers from the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the Wildlife Protection Department of Jammu and Kashmir conducted the survey.
- What
- A survey confirmed the year-round presence and breeding of snow leopards in Jammu and Kashmir.
- When
- The study was conducted between 2022 and 2025.
- Where
- Jammu and Kashmir, specifically the Kishtwar Himalayas.
- Why
- To assess the snow leopard population and establish a conservation strategy.
Conservation Efforts
Community Concerns
Conservation versus Community Needs
Conservation Efforts
Focus on preserving snow leopard habitat through landscape-level conservation.
Community Concerns
Local communities' concerns regarding livestock depredation by snow leopards are sometimes ignored, potentially leading to conflict and retaliatory killings.
- Study Period
- 2022-2025
- Location
- Kishtwar Himalayas, Jammu and Kashmir
- Confirmed Population
- Resident, breeding population
- Snow Leopards Identified
- At least 12 adults
- Other Species
- 16 mammals, including Himalayan brown bear and wolf
- Project Support
- Royal Enfield Social Mission