<
https://timesca.com/kazakhstans-snow-leopard-population-reaches-near-historic-levels/>
"The snow leopard population in Kazakhstan has rebounded to near-historic
levels, with an estimated 152 to 189 individuals now residing in the country.
This marks a significant achievement in conservation efforts, as such numbers
were last observed in the 1980s. Despite this progress, human activity remains
the most significant threat to the survival of this elusive predator.
Known as the irbis, the snow leopard is listed in the International Union for
Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List and the national Red Books of all 12
countries within its range. In Kazakhstan, these majestic predators reside in
mountainous areas such as the Altai, Tien Shan, Zhetysu Alatau, and other large
mountain systems.
Since 2018, Kazakhstan has implemented a snow leopard conservation project
under the United Nations Development Program (UNDP). As a result, the snow
leopard population has increased by more than 26% since 2019. Alexei Grachev,
executive director of the Snow Leopard Foundation and head of the Snow Leopard
Monitoring Center, noted that the species’ numbers have stabilized, with
protected areas playing a crucial role in their survival.
Key habitats include Ile-Alatau National Park, Altyn-Emel, and the
Katon-Karagai Reserve. The Zhetysu region, in particular, boasts the highest
population density thanks to favorable conditions such as abundant prey,
effective protection, and minimal human interference. In contrast, the snow
leopard population in Katon-Karagai Park remains small. Their presence was
first confirmed by photo traps in 2020. A recent sighting of a female with two
cubs in the park indicates a gradual recovery.
Despite the positive trends, snow leopards face several threats including
poaching, expanding economic activities, climate change, and conflicts with
local communities. To mitigate these risks, efforts are being made to establish
new protected areas, such as the Merken Regional Park in Zhambyl Oblast.
Satellite telemetry has also been introduced, with 11 leopards collared in 2021
to track their movements and better understand their behavior."
Via
What Could Go Right? The Year Ahead
https://theprogressnetwork.org/potential-progress-2025/
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
