Join us for a webinar that explores the interconnection between climate change, cultural heritage, and the conservation of the snow leopard in Kyrgyzstan. This event features a series of presentations from our guests, each dedicated to sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and community development. Our speakers from the Rural Development Fund (RDF), a public foundation dedicated to environmental preservation and community development, will explore how community-led efforts and traditional knowledge can play a pivotal role in both snow leopard conservation and climate change mitigation. Each project presented exemplifies the power of local engagement and cooperation in safeguarding the unique biodiversity of Kyrgyzstan’s landscapes.
We are also delighted to share that the Rural Development Fund has been honoured with the prestigious Jeonju International Award for the Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage and are excited to celebrate this remarkable achievement during the upcoming webinar.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Title: Anti-predator strategies of blue sheep (naur) under varied predator compositions: a comparison of snow leopard-inhabited valleys with and without wolves in Nepal
Author: Thapa, K., Rayamajhi, S.
Abstract: In Nepal, naur are usually the staple wild prey for the snow leopard, a solitary stalker hunter, and in some cases, for the wolf who hunts in a pack. We assumed that naur would adapt their anti-predatory responses to the presence of chasing and ambushing predators in the Manang Valley, where there are snow leopards and wolves, and in the Nar Phu valley, an area where there is only the snow leopard. Aims. The aim of this study was to determine if there were differences in anti-predator strategies (vigilance, habitat selection and escape terrain) of naur in two valleys over two seasons, spring and autumn. Methods. In spring 2019, we conducted a reconnaissance survey on the status of the naur and its habitat in the Manang and Nar Phu valleys of the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal. In spring and autumn 2020 and 2021, we observed 360 focal naur individuals (180 individuals in each valley), using the vigilance behaviour methodology to examine the behaviour of the naur. Key results. There was little difference in the size of the naur groups between the Manang and Nar Phu valleys. The naur were twice as vigilant in Manang (15%), where there are snow leopards and wolves, as they were in Nar Phu (9%), with only snow leopards. The distance from the naur to escape cover was significantly shorter in Manang than in Nar Phu valley. Naur used significantly more rolling terrain in Nar Phu than in Manang.
Conclusions. The return of wolves to the Manang valley may have resulted in an increase in the level of naur vigilance. Most likely, the wolves in Manang have already had an effect on the female-to-young-ratio, and this effect will possibly have important consequences for the naur population, as well as at the ecosystem level in the future. Other key determining factors, such as the climate crisis and changes in local resources, could have a significant impact on the naur population, indicating the need for more research. Implications. The findings of this study would provide valuable baseline information for the design of a science-based conservation strategy for conservation managers and scientists on naur, snow leopards and wolves.
Join us for a webinar that explores the interconnection between climate change, cultural heritage, and the conservation of the snow leopard in Kyrgyzstan. This event features a series of presentations from our guests, each dedicated to sustainability, biodiversity conservation, and community development. Our speakers from the Rural Development Fund (RDF), a public foundation dedicated to environmental preservation and community development, will explore how community-led efforts and traditional knowledge can play a pivotal role in both snow leopard conservation and climate change mitigation. Each project presented exemplifies the power of local engagement and cooperation in safeguarding the unique biodiversity of Kyrgyzstan’s landscapes.
About the presentation
The series of presentations collectively offer a diverse exploration of conservation, community development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. Kuluipa Akmatova will showcase the significance of collaboration in her extensive work, emphasizing snow leopard conservation and cultural heritage preservation. Marlis Sarchaev’s presentation delves into the success of the “Support to Development of a Green Agriculture by Local Communities” project, focusing on sustainable agriculture’s impact on climate change and community prosperity. Alina Zhenishbekova’s presentation spotlights her project’s innovative community engagement approach and her commitment to broader global concerns such as gender equality. Batma Kaldybek kyzy shares insights on the “Snow Leopard Guardians” project, highlighting the preservation of traditional knowledge and snow leopard conservation. Elvira Maratova’s perspective from the Regional Platform on Ecosystem Restoration underscores the importance of traditional wisdom in modern conservation efforts and climate change mitigation.
About our Guests:
Kuluipa Akmatova, Executive Director, RDF – A dedicated advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable community development. Since 2017, she has been leading the PF “Rural Development Fund” and actively participating in civil society development. Kuluipa is a member of the Governing Council of the World Union of Spiritual Practices, a Member of the International Network of Snow leopard defenders LOSL, a Member of the Supervisory Board of the Agency for Community Development and Investment of the Kyrgyz Republic (ARIS), Member of the Council on Sustainable Development in the Context of Climate Change under the Speaker of the Parliament (Jogorku Kenesh) of the Kyrgyz Republic, Member of the Advisory Committee of Anchor Schools for Youth Action on Climate Change in Central Asia at the initiative of the World Bank and also a Member of Global Steering Committee of Mountain Partnership Secretariat (alternative CA).
She will be sharing information on RDF’s experience on Climate change mitigation and Snow leopard conservation, as well as on TK, cultural heritage.
Marlis Sarchaev, Lawyer and Advocacy Specialist, RDF, and will represent the Association of Farmers for the Cultivation and Processing of Medicinal Herbs “Birlik.” This project, “Support to Development of a Green Agriculture by Local Communities,” implemented by RDF, had the goal of aiding climate change mitigation. This was achieved by creating a sustainable agricultural value chain model that prioritizes biodiversity preservation, enables adaptive production in response to environmental challenges, enhances productivity, and promotes the establishment of social and locally-rooted agro-enterprises. Consequently, the project led to the establishment of the “Birlik” Association of Farmers dedicated to cultivating and processing medicinal herbs. Currently, the association comprises 28 cooperatives and farms engaged in the cultivation and sale of medicinal plants in the Kyrgyz Republic.
Alina Zhenishbekova, Young Leader and Researcher, RDF – Alina Zhenishbekova is a Project Coordinator at the Rural Development Fund, where she oversees impactful initiatives aimed at improving the management of vital natural landscapes. Her role emphasizes expertise in community engagement and participatory methodologies, which will be prominently featured in her presentation of the project “Enhancing Chychkan Gorge Management in Kyrgyzstan.” This project empowers local communities to actively engage in decision-making, advancing effective conservation strategies.Moreover, Alina Zhenishbekova is a distinguished member of the Youth Platform within the International Land Coalition, a platform dedicated to addressing critical issues such as ecosystem restoration, land rights, and gender equality. She has actively participated in international youth forums centered on land-related topics and regional learning exchanges that underscore the significance of involving youth and women in decision-making processes concerning land rights.
Batma Kaldybek kyzy, Project Curator, RDF – Batma Kaldybek kyzy brings valuable experience in wildlife conservation and the dissemination of traditional knowledge. She leads the project “Snow Leopard Guardians: Reviving Traditional Knowledge for Conservation” and will share how the project engages youth and communities in preserving the snow leopard’s habitat through the dissemination of traditional knowledge and educational activities.
Elvira Maratova, Facilitator of the Regional Platform on Ecosystem Restoration at the International Land Coalition Asia – Elvira will present the platform’s vision, which acknowledges the value of established customary rules and practices that have preserved, regenerated, and sustained vital ecosystems over generations. This aligns with the broader objectives of climate change mitigation and wildlife conservation in the region.
Date/Time
Tuesday, September 26th, 2023 at 14:00pm Bishkek time
If you have never used Zoom before, we recommend that you try the link 10 minutes before the start of the lecture.
Please feel free to write questions in the comment area and there will be time for questions/discussion at the end of the talk.
Please note that the session will be recorded and later featured on the SLN website. If you have concerns about this please let us know before the session.
We are also delighted to share that the Rural Development Fund has been honoured with the prestigious Jeonju International Award for the Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage and are excited to celebrate this remarkable achievement during the upcoming webinar.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Title: Variation in plant composition along a gradient of increasing distance from wells in a mountain steppe in southern Mongolia
Author: Ulziibadrakh, T., Uudus, B., Lkhagvajav, P., Alexander, J. S., Johansson, O., Sharma, K., Samelius, G.
Abstract: Habitat degradation and heavy grazing by livestock are common conservation challenges across the steppes of Mongolia and Central Asia. Livestock grazing patterns are generally not uniform and are typically greater near campsites and watering holes. In this study, we examined how plant composition in a mountain steppe in southern Mongolia varied along a gradient of increasing distance from wells. We found that the cover and average height of Ephedra prezewalskii increased with increasing distance from the wells whereas soil chemistry and the other variables of plant composition that we examined were similar along the gradient of increasing distance from the wells. These results suggest relatively limited impact of livestock grazing on plant composition in our study. However, our study was limited in space and time and further studies are needed to understand the impact of livestock grazing in this mountain steppe in southern Mongolia.
Title: Predation Patterns and Hunting Behaviour of Snow Leopards: Insights from an Ibex Hunt
Author: Johansson, O., Nyam, E., Lkhagvajav, P., Alexander, J. A., Samelius, G.
Abstract: The hunting behaviours of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) are poorly understood. In this note, we describe the successful hunt of an adult male ibex (Capra sibirica) by a known male snow leopard in Tost Mountains, Mongolia. The hunt started in a mountain slope close to three large boulders and progressed downhill for 115 m until it concluded at the bottom of a drainage. By comparing the habitat where the ibex was killed to the kill sites of 158 ibex and 17 argali (Ovis ammon) that were killed by GPS-collared snow leopards, we demonstrate that the majority (62%) of these kills occurred in drainages. We propose that in successful hunts, snow leopards commonly ambush from above, causing prey individuals to typically flee downhill. Thereby the prey maintain their momentum and it is not until they are slowed down upon reaching the bottom of the drainage that the snow leopards are able to subdue them.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Title: Snow Leopard Network: 20 years of collaboration among practitioners
Author: Alexander, J. S., Johansson, O., Xiao, L., Chetri, M., Lkhagvajav, P., Karumbaya, R., Wright, B., Modaqiq, W., Lovari, S.
Abstract: The Snow Leopard Network (snowleopardnetwork.org), a global group dedicated to snow leopard Panthera uncia conservation, is commemorating 2 decades of accomplishments since its inception in 2002. Initiated at the Snow Leopard Survival Summit in Seattle, USA, with 58 experts from 17 countries, the Network continues to grow and to play a pivotal role in safeguarding the snow leopard in High Asia. Current membership stands at 621 individuals and 31 organizations. As new challenges and opportunities arise, collaborative and innovative solutions are more crucial than ever.
Conservationists worldwide are making efforts to minimize human-wildlife conflicts for coexistence. Despite its varying definitions, coexistence generally requires humans to sustainably share landscapes and resources with wildlife. This is a grand objective that presents significant challenges. It requires more than scientific evidence, technological innovation, market efficiency, and policy adjustment, but also transformation in our mental map of reality, ways of knowing, and values. Yufang Gao’s interdisciplinary scholarship aims to develop a holistic understanding of the ecological, sociopolitical, and cultural dimensions of human-wildlife coexistence across multiple spatiotemporal scales and institutional contexts in China and worldwide. In this talk, he will use Tibetan traditional knowledge about snow leopards and other large carnivores to discuss the role of culture in shaping local imagination as to the ends, means, and contexts of coexistence and its implication for conservation.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Title: Snow Leopard Intrusions into Livestock Corrals in Badakhshan, Afghanistan: Challenges and Solutions
Author: Moheb, Z., Sahel, K., Fazli, M., Hakimi, M., Ismaily, S.
Abstract: Snow leopards (Panthera uncia) frequently prey on livestock throughout their range, posing a potential threat to human livelihoods and endangering the predator’s own survival. In this study, we document seven incidents of snow leopards intruding into livestock corrals and engaging in surplus killing in three districts of Badakhshan, Afghanistan. Six of the predation incidents were attributed to a single individual, occurring in five locations of Wakhan District and eventually in Yumgan District, where the captured animal was relocated. The remaining predation incident occurred in Keran-wa Munjan District, marking the first recorded evidence of snow leopards in this area. In all but one of the incidents, the predator was trapped in the corral it intruded and safely released back to the wild with the support of the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) and Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) team in Afghanistan. Local communities have been supportive in releasing the snow leopard despite losses of over 50 livestock. To mitigate negative interactions between snow leopards and livestock, conservation efforts should focus on conserving prey species, implementing predator- proof measures for livestock corrals, and utilizing collar tracking when a trapped snow leopard is found in a corral. Unfortunately, when an individual repeatedly enters livestock corrals and continues killing livestock, capture and relocation to captivity often become the only viable option to address the problem and ensure the animal’s safety from retaliatory action by affected herders.
Join us for a webinar that delves into the fascinating world of cluster studies in snow leopard research. We will explore the realm of spatial ecology and its broader implications for understanding the species. Our guest, Gustaf Samelius, Assistant Director of Science for the Snow Leopard Trust, will join us to share a recent update on the collation of detailed cluster studies of snow leopards in the South Gobi, Mongolia. These studies, conducted in collaboration with the Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation, are part of the Long-Term Ecological Study, which has been active for over 13 years. Gustaf will discuss how his time in the Gobi during spring 2023 has provided a more detailed understanding of the species.
GPS-collars are a common way to study spatial ecology but GPS-collars can also teach us about other aspects of ecology such as foraging patterns and reproductive biology. During this seminar, Gustaf will show us how they use what is called cluster studies (which is visiting of the places where collared animals stop for extended periods) to study predation patterns of collared snow leopards in southern Mongolia. Gustaf will also show us how they are also starting to use cluster studies to learn more about where the collared cats are resting and how this will help us understand how the cats are using the mountains and why they are limited to mountains.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Title: Co-designing conservation interventions through participatory action research in the Indian Trans-Himalaya
Author: Khanyari, M., Dorjay, R., Lobzang, S., Bijoor, A., Suryawanshi, K.
Abstract: 1. Community-based conservation, despite being more inclusive than fortress conservation, has been criticized for being a top-down implementation of external ideas brought to local communities for conservation’s benefit. This is particularly true for Changpas, the pastoral people of Changthang in trans-Himalayan India who live alongside unique wildlife.
2. Our main aim was to co-design conservation interventions through participatory action research. We worked with two Changpa communities, to understand the issues faced by them. Subsequently, we co-designed context-sensitive interventions to facilitate positive human–nature interactions. We did so by integrating the PARTNERS (Presence, Aptness, Respect, Transparency, Empathy, Responsiveness, Strategic Support) principles with the Trinity of Voice (Access, Standing and Influence).
3. In Rupsho, we facilitated focus group discussions (FGDs) led by the community. We found livestock depredation by wildlife was primarily facilitated by the weather. This led to co-designing of a new corral design, which was piloted with seven households, safeguarding 2385 pashmina goats and sheep. Approximating the value of each sheep/goat to be USD125, this intervention amounts to a significant economic protection of USD c. 42,500 for each household. This is along with intangible gains of trust, ownership and improved self-esteem.
4. In Tegazong, a restricted area adjoining the Indo-China border with no previous research records, we worked with 43 Changpa people to co-create research questions of mutual interest. Wildlife presence and reasons for livestock loss were identified as areas of mutual interest. The herders suggested they would record data in a form of their choice, for 6 months, while they live in their winter pastures. This participatory community monitoring revealed nutrition and hypothermia to be a key cause of livestock death. Subsequently, we delimited two previously untested interventions: lamb cribs and provisioning of locally sourced barley as a feed supplement. The wildlife monitoring recorded the first record of Tibetan Gazelle Procapra picticuadata, outside of their known distribution, in Tegazong.
5. We aim to highlight the benefits of co-designing projects with local communities that link research and conservation, while also discussing the challenges faced. Ultimately, such projects are needed to ensure ethical knowledge generation and conservation, which aims to be decolonial and inclusive.
Please find details below of a new article added to our Bibliography:
Kuluipa Akmatova, Executive Director, RDF – A dedicated advocate for environmental conservation and sustainable community development. Since 2017, she has been leading the PF “Rural Development Fund” and actively participating in civil society development. Kuluipa is a member of the Governing Council of the World Union of Spiritual Practices, a Member of the International Network of Snow leopard defenders LOSL, a Member of the Supervisory Board of the Agency for Community Development and Investment of the Kyrgyz Republic (ARIS), Member of the Council on Sustainable Development in the Context of Climate Change under the Speaker of the Parliament (Jogorku Kenesh) of the Kyrgyz Republic, Member of the Advisory Committee of Anchor Schools for Youth Action on Climate Change in Central Asia at the initiative of the World Bank and also a Member of Global Steering Committee of Mountain Partnership Secretariat (alternative CA). 
