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Author | Mishra, C., Young, J. C., Fiechter, M., Rutherford, B., Redpath, S. M. | ||||
Title | Building partnerships with communities for biodiversity conservation: lessons from Asian mountains | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2017 | Publication | Journal of Applied Ecology | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-9 | ||
Keywords | community engagement, conservation, conservation programmes, Panthera uncia, partnership, snow leopard, stakeholder engagement | ||||
Abstract | Applied ecology lies at the intersection of human societies and natural systems. Consequently, applied ecologists are constantly challenged as to how best to use ecological knowledge to influence the management of ecosystems (Habel et al. 2013). As Hulme (2011) has pointed out, to do so effectively we must leave our ivory towers and engage with stakeholders. This engagement is especially important and challenging in areas of the world where poverty, weak institutions and poor governance structures conspire to limit the ability of local communities to contribute to biodiversity conservation. These communities often bear disproportionate costs in the form of curtailed access to natural resources, ecosystem services, and developmental programmes, and also suffer wildlife-caused damage, including injuries or loss of human life, and economic and psychological impacts (Madhusudan & Mishra 2003). It is well-recognized that conservation efforts in large parts of the world historically have been perceived to be discriminatory by local people (Mishra 2016). The need for engagement with local communities is therefore embedded in the 2020 Aichi biodiversity targets and is widely thought to be critical to the success of conservation efforts. However, although the need for engagement is clear, as ecologists and practitioners we often have little formal training in how we should engage with local communities and how we can recognize the pitfalls and opportunities provided by developing genuine partnerships. The practical challenges of achieving effective engagement are considerable (Agrawal & Gibson 1999; Waylen et al. 2010, 2013), and such forays are fraught with difficulties and ethical considerations (Chan et al. 2007). When they are done badly, conservation interventions can damage relationships and trust, and lead to serious injustice to local people and setbacks for ecological outcomes (Duffy 2010). Much has been written on knowledge exchange and participatory research approaches (e.g. Reed et al. 2014 and references therein). This Practitioner’s Perspective seeks to focus on the next logical step: the elements that practitioners and researchers need to consider when engaging with communities to effect conservation. Engagement around the management of protected areas has been discussed and formalized (e.g. Dudley 2008). Considerable literature has also emerged, particularly from Africa, on the use and co-management of natural resources, commonly referred to as community-based natural resource management or CBNRM (e.g. Fabricius 2004; Roe, Nelson & Sandbrook 2009; Child & Barnes 2010). There have been attempts to draw general principles for CBNRM (e.g. Thakadu 2005; Gruber 2010). In the related field of community-based conservation, however, while there have been efforts to draw lessons (e.g. Berkes 2004), little exists in terms of frameworks or guidelines for effectively working with local communities to effect biodiversity conservation in multi-use landscapes (Mishra 2016). The eight principles for community-based conservation outlined here (Fig. 1) build on ideas developed in fields as diverse as applied ecology, conservation and natural resource management, community health, social psychology, rural development, negotiation theory, and ethics (see Mishra 2016). They have been developed, challenged and tested through 20 years of community experience andour own research on the endangered snow leopard Panthera uncia and its mountain ecosystems, in South and Central Asia. We suspect that with contextual adaptations, their relevance for applied ecologists and practitioners may be universal. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1451 | ||
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Author | Mallon, D. P., Jackson, R. M. | ||||
Title | A downlist is not a demotion: Red List status and reality | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2017 | Publication | Oryx | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-5 | ||
Keywords | Cryptic, IUCN Red List, Panthera uncia, population estimate, snow leopard, species assessment | ||||
Abstract | Assessments of biodiversity status are needed to track trends, and the IUCN Red List has become the accepted global standard for documenting the extinction risk of species. Obtaining robust data on population size is an essential component of any assessment of a species� status, including assessments for the IUCN Red List. Obtaining such estimates is complicated by methodological and logistical issues, which are more pronounced in the case of cryptic species, such as the snow leopard Panthera uncia. Estimates of the total population size of this species have, to date, been based on little more than guesstimates, but a comprehensive summary of recent field research indicates that the conservation status of the snow leopard may be less dire than previously thought. A revised categorization, from Endangered to Vulnerable, on the IUCN Red List was proposed but met some opposition, as did a recent, similar recategorization of the giant panda Ailuropoda melanoleuca. Possible factors motivating such attitudes are discussed. Downlisting on the IUCN Red List indicates that the species concerned is further from extinction, and is always to be welcomed, whether resulting from successful conservation intervention or improved knowledge of status and trends. Celebrating success is important to reinforce the message that conservation works, and to incentivize donors. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1460 | ||
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Author | Murali, R., Redpath, S., Mishra, C. | ||||
Title | The value of ecosystem services in the high altitude Spiti Valley, Indian Trans-Himalaya | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2017 | Publication | Elsevier | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | 28 | Pages | 115-123 | |
Keywords | Ecosystem services, Pastoralists, Local communities, Provisioning services Economic valuation, Panthera uncia | ||||
Abstract | The high mountain ranges of South and Central Asia are increasingly being exposed to large-scale development projects. These areas are home to traditional pastoralist communities and internationally important biodiversity including the endangered snow leopard Panthera uncia. Development projects rely on economic cost-benefit analysis, but the ecosystem services in the high Himalayas are poorly understood and are rarely accounted for. As a first step to fill this gap, we identified the main ecosystem services used by local people in the Trans-Himalayan Spiti Valley (7591 km2), a region important for conservation of snow leopards and high mountain biodiversity, and undertook an economic valuation. Stakeholders identified a range of services, though these were dominated by provisioning services identified by 90% of respondents. Only 5.4% of the respondents recognised regulatory services and 4.8% recognised cultural services. The mean economic value of provisioning services was estimated at US$ 3622 ± 149 HH1 yr1, which was 3.8 times higher than the average annual household income. Our results underscore the need to account for ecosystem services in the cost-benefit analyses of large-scale development projects in addition to assessments of their environmental and social impact. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1462 | ||
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Author | Bocci, A., Lovari, S., Khan, M. Z., Mori, E. | ||||
Title | Sympatric snow leopards and Tibetan wolves: coexistence of large carnivores with human-driven potential competition | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2017 | Publication | European Journal of Wildlife Research | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-9 | ||
Keywords | Panthera uncia . Canis lupus filchneri . Competition . Large-carnivore coexistence . Siberian ibex | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard Panthera uncia coexists with the wolf Canis lupus throughout most of its distribution range. We analysed the food habits of snow leopards and wolves in their sympatric range in the Karakoram mountains of Pakistan. A total of 131 genotyped scats (N = 74, snow leopard; N = 57, Tibetan wolf) were collected during the cold periods (i.e. winter and spring) of 2011 and 2012 in the Hushey valley. Large mammals, i.e. livestock and ibex, accounted for 84.8 and 83.1% of the diet (relative frequency) of the snow leopard and the wolf, respectively. Domestic prey was the staple of the diet of both snow leopards (66.6%) and wolves (75.1%). Ibex Capra ibex, the only wild ungulate in our study area, contributed 18.2 and 16.9%of relative frequencies in the diets of the snow leopard and the wolf, respectively. In winter, the snowleopard heavily relied on domestic sheep (43.3%) for food, whereas the wolf preyed mainly on domestic goats (43.4%). Differently from other study areas, both snow leopards and wolves showed no apparent prey preference (Jacobs index: snow leopard min. − 0.098, max. 0.102; Tibetan wolf min. − 0.120, max. 0.03). In human depauperate areas, with livestock and only a few wild prey, should competitive interactions arise, two main scenarios could be expected, with either predator as a winner. In both cases, the best solution could primarily impinge on habitat restoration, so that a balance could be found between these predators, who have already coexisted for thousands of years. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1464 | ||
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Author | Schutgens, M. G., Hanson, J. H., Baral, N., Ale, S. B. | ||||
Title | Visitors’ willingness to pay for snow leopard Panthera uncia conservation in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2018 | Publication | Oryx | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1 - 10 | ||
Keywords | Carnivore conservation, contingent valuation, economic valuation, existence value, Panthera uncia, snow leopard, threatened species, wildlife policy | ||||
Abstract | The Vulnerable snow leopard Panthera uncia experiences persecution across its habitat in Central Asia, particularly from herders because of livestock losses. Given the popularity of snow leopards worldwide, transferring some of the value attributed by the international community to these predators may secure funds and support for their conservation. We administered contingent valuation surveys to  international visitors to the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal, between May and June , to determine their willingness to pay a fee to support the implementation of a Snow Leopard Conservation Action Plan. Of the %of visitors who stated they would pay a snow leopard conservation fee in addition to the existing entry fee, the mean amount that they were willing to pay was USD  per trip. The logit regression model showed that the bid amount, the level of support for implementing the Action Plan, and the number of days spent in the Conservation Area were significant predictors of visitors’ willingness to pay. The main reasons stated by visitors for their willingness to pay were a desire to protect the environment and an affordable fee. A major reason for visitors’ unwillingness to pay was that the proposed conservation fee was too expensive for them. This study represents the first application of economic valuation to snow leopards, and is relevant to the conservation of threatened species in the Annapurna Conservation Area and elsewhere. |
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Address | http://snowleopardnetwork.org/bibliography/Schutgensetal_2018.pdf | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1467 | ||
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Author | Johansson, O., Koehler, G., Rauset, G. R.< Samelius, G., Andren, H., Mishra, C., Lhagvarsuren, P., McCarthy, T., Low, M. | ||||
Title | Sex specific seasonal variation in puma and snow leopard home range utilization | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2018 | Publication | Ecosphere | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 9 | Issue | 8 | Pages | 1-14 |
Keywords | Cougar, female choice, LoCoH, mating tactics, Panthera Uncia, Puma concolor, spacing pattern, territoriality | ||||
Abstract | Territory size is often larger for males than for females in species without biparental care. For large solitary carnivores, this is explained by males encompassing a set of female territories to monopolize their reproduction during mating (area maximization). However, males are expected to behave more like females outside of breeding, with their area utilization being dependent on the range required to secure food resources (area minimization). To examine how male and female solitary carnivores adjust their spatial organization during the year as key resources (mates and prey) change, we radio‐collared 17 pumas (Puma concolor; nine males and eight females) and 14 snow leopards (Panthera uncia; seven males and seven females) and estimated home range size and overlap on two temporal scales (annual vs. monthly). Contrary to expectation, we found no evidence that males monopolized females (the mean territory overlap between females and the focal male during the mating season was 0.28 and 0.64 in pumas and snow leopards, respectively). Although male�male overlap of annual home ranges was comparatively high (snow leopards [0.21] vs. pumas [0.11]), monthly home range overlaps were small (snow leopards [0.02] vs. pumas [0.08]) suggesting strong territoriality. In pumas, both males and females reduced their monthly home ranges in winter, and at the same time, prey distribution was clumped and mating activity increased. In snow leopards, females showed little variation in seasonal home range size, following the seasonal stability in their primary prey. However, male snow leopards reduced their monthly home range utilization in the mating season. In line with other studies, our results suggest that female seasonal home range variation is largely explained by changes in food resource distribution. However, contrary to expectations, male territories did not generally encompass those of females, and males reduced their home ranges during mating. Our results show that male and female territorial boundaries tend to intersect in these species, and hint at the operation of female choice and male mate guarding within these mating systems. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1471 | ||
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Author | Khanal, G., Poudyal, L. P., Devkota, B. P., Ranabhat, R., Wegge, P. | ||||
Title | Status and conservation of the snow leopard Panthera uncia in Api Nampa Conservation Area, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2018 | Publication | Fauna & Flora International | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-8 | ||
Keywords | Api Nampa Conservation Area, bharal, Nepal, Panthera uncia, Pseudois nayaur, snow leopard | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard Panthera uncia is globally threatened and reliable information on its abundance, distribution and prey species is a prerequisite for its conservation. In October-November 2014 we assessed the distribution of the snow leopard in the recently established Api Nampa Conservation Area in the Nepal Himalayas. Within selected blocks we conducted sign surveys and counted the number of bharal Pseudois nayaur, its principal wild prey, along transects totalling 106 km.We recorded 203 putative snow leopard signs at an encounter rate of 1.91 signs/km. Generalized linear models of the number of signs detected per transect showed that elevation had a positive influence and human activities a negative influence on sign encounter rate; prey abundance had only a weak positive influence on sign encounter rate. Within the effectively surveyed area of c. 2002 km2, we counted 527 bharal at an estimated density of 2.28 animals/km2. Recruitment of bharal was low, estimated at 48 kids/100 adult females, most likely a result of poor or overgrazed rangeland. We estimate the total number of bharal in this conservation area to be .>1,000, a prey base that could sustain 6-9 snow leopards. Based on our field observations, we identified human disturbance and habitat degradation associated with extraction of non-timber forest products, livestock grazing, and poaching as the main threats to the snow leopard. Standardized sign surveys, preferably supplemented by sampling with remote cameras or with genetic analysis of scats would provide robust baseline information on the abundance of snow leopards in this conservation area. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1473 | ||
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Author | Hanson, J. H., Schutgens, M., Baral, N. | ||||
Title | What explains tourists support for snow leopard conservation in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal? | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | Publication | Human Dimensions of Wildlife | Abbreviated Journal | ||
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-15 | ||
Keywords | Flagship species; Himalayas; knowledge-attitude-practice model; Panthera uncia; protected area management; tourism | ||||
Abstract | Wildlife tourism is increasingly important for the conservation of threatened species such as snow leopards. However, what tourists know or value about snow leopards, and to what extent they support the conservation of this species, has received limited empirical attention. This paper investigates tourist knowledge about snow leopards, beliefs and values toward the species, and support for its conservation in the Annapurna Conservation Area of Nepal. Survey data were collected from 406 foreign tourists between March and May 2014. Although knowledge about snow leopards varied among respondents, there was widespread support for their conservation. Knowledge about snow leopards was best explained by education level and environmental organization membership. Improved knowledge about the species, and a variety of intrinsic conservation values, were found to increase tourist support for snow leopard conservation. These results provide important insights to help tailor tourism initiatives to support the conservation of snow leopards. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1474 | ||
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Author | Hanson, J. H., Schutgens, M., Lama, R.P., Aryal, A., Dhakal, M. | ||||
Title | Local attitudes to the proposed translocation of blue sheep Pseudois nayaur to Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2018 | Publication | Fauna & Flora International | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-7 | ||
Keywords | Attitudes, blue sheep, human&wildlife conflict, Panthera uncia, Pseudois nayaur, Sagarmatha National Park, snow leopard, translocation | ||||
Abstract | Translocations are an important tool for the conservation of biodiversity, but although ecological feasibility studies are frequently conducted prior to implementation, social feasibility studies that consider how local communities perceive such projects are less common. The translocation of blue sheep Pseudois nayaur to Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal, has been proposed, to reduce livestock depredation by snow leopards Panthera uncia by providing an alternative prey base in addition to the small population of Himalayan thar Hemitragus jemlahicus. This study used systematic sampling, a quantitative questionnaire and qualitative interviews within the Park to provide data on the social viability of the proposed translocation. Quantitative analysis revealed moderate levels of support but qualitative analysis suggested that there are significant concerns about the proposal. In addition,multiple regression analysis found that women and livestock owners were significantly less supportive, although the model had low explanatory power. Potential crop damage and competition for forage were frequently cited as concerns, especially amongst those with a high level of dependence on natural resources. Given the mixed response to the proposed translocation of blue sheep to the Everest region, alleviating the reservations of local residents is likely to be key to any further consultation, planning or implementation. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1475 | ||
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Author | Suryawanshi, K. R., Khanyari, M., Sharma, K., Lkhagvajav, P., Mishra, C. | ||||
Title | Sampling bias in snow leopard population estimation studies | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | Population Eccology | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-9 | ||
Keywords | camera trap, Central Asia, Himalaya, meta-analysis, monitoring, Panthera uncia, population ecology | ||||
Abstract | Accurate assessments of the status of threatened species and their conservation planning require reliable estimation of their global populations and robust monitoring of local population trends. We assessed the adequacy and suitability of studies in reliably estimating the global snow leopard (Panthera uncia) population. We compiled a dataset of all the peer-reviewed published literature on snow leopard population estimation. Metadata analysis showed estimates of snow leopard density to be a negative exponential function of area, suggesting that study areas have generally been too small for accurate density estimation, and sampling has often been biased towards the best habitats. Published studies are restricted to six of the 12 range countries, covering only 0.3�0.9% of the presumed global range of the species. Re-sampling of camera trap data from a relatively large study site (c.1684 km2) showed that small-sized study areas together with a bias towards good quality habitats in existing studies may have overestimated densities by up to five times. We conclude that current information is biased and inadequate for generating a reliable global population estimate of snow leopards. To develop a rigorous and useful baseline and to avoid pitfalls, there is an urgent need for (a) refinement of sampling and analytical protocols for population estimation of snow leopards (b) agreement and coordinated use of standardized sampling protocols amongst researchers and governments across the range, and (c) sampling larger and under-represented areas of the snow leopard's global range. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1477 | ||
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Author | Chetri, M, Odden, M., Sharma, K., Flagstad, O., Wegge, P | ||||
Title | Estimating snow leopard density using fecal DNA in a large landscape in north-central Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | Global Ecology and Conservation | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | 17 | Pages | 1-8 | |
Keywords | Panthera uncia, Density, Annapurna-Manaslu landscape, Noninvasive, Spatial scale | ||||
Abstract | Although abundance estimates have a strong bearing on the conservation status of a species, less than 2% of the global snow leopard distribution range has been sampled systematically, mostly in small survey areas. In order to estimate snow leopard density across a large landscape, we collected 347 putative snow leopard scats from 246 transects (490 km) in twenty-six 5 5km sized sampling grid cells within 4393 km2 in Annapurna- Manaslu, Nepal. From 182 confirmed snow leopard scats, 81 were identified as belonging to 34 individuals; the remaining were discarded for their low (<0.625) quality index. Using maximum likelihood based spatial capture recapture analysis, we developed candidate model sets to test effects of various covariates on density and detection of scats on transects. The best models described the variation in density as a quadratic function of elevation and detection as a linear function of topography. The average density estimate of snow leopards for the area of interest within Nepal was 0.95 (SE 0.19) animals per 100 km2 (0.66e1.41 95% CL) with predicted densities varying between 0.1 and 1.9 in different parts, thus highlighting the heterogeneity in densities as a function of habitat types. Our density estimate was low compared to previous estimates from smaller study areas. Probably, estimates from some of these areas were inflated due to locally high abundances in overlap zones (hotspots) of neighboring individuals, whose territories probably range far beyond study area borders. Our results highlight the need for a large-scale approach in snow leopard monitoring, and we recommend that methodological problems related to spatial scale are taken into account in future snow leopard research. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1478 | ||
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Author | Kalashnikova, Y. A., Karnaukhov, A. S., Dubinin, M. Y., Poyarkov, A. D., Rozhnov, V. V. | ||||
Title | POTENTIAL HABITAT OF SNOW LEOPARD (PANTHERA UNCIA, FELINAE) IN SOUTH SIBERIA AND ADJACENT TERRITORIES BASED ON THE MAXIMUM ENTROPY DISTRIBUTION MODEL | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | Abbreviated Journal | ||
Volume | 98 | Issue | 3 | Pages | 332-342 |
Keywords | Snow leopard, irbis, Panthera uncia, Maxent, habitat model, potential habitat | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard is an endangered large felid inhabiting highlands of 12 Asian countries. It is distributed across vast territories and adequate modern methods are required for mapping its potential habitats. The goal of the present study is to create a model of snow leopard potential habitat within the northern part of its range in Russia (and adjacent territories of Mongolia, China and Kazakhstan). More than 5 years of observations (total number of presence points = 449), environmental variables and the maximum entropy distribution method (Maxent) are used. The resulting map demonstrates that a suitable habitat (probability of the animal�s presence between 0.5 and 1) of the northern population of snow leopard in Russia occupies 16500 km2 with a buffer of transient territories (probability between 0.25 and 0.49) covering 32800 km2. Most of a suitable habitat within the study area is associated with the Altai Mountains, Western Sayan Mountains, Sangilen Plateau, Tsagan-Shibetu and Shapshal. One third of the suitable habitat lies within areas of a varying protection status. The results of modeling are of importance both for scientists and conservation managers, as they allow for leopard occurrence to be predicted, supporting research on and the conservation of the species. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1480 | ||
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Author | Karnaukhov, A. S., Malykh, S. V., Korablev, M. P., Kalashnikova, Y. M., Poyarkov, A. D., Rozhnov, V. V. | ||||
Title | Current Status of the Eastern Sayan Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) Grouping and Its Nutritive Base | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2018 | Publication | Biology Bulletin | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 45 | Issue | 9 | Pages | 1106-1115 |
Keywords | Panthera uncia, Bol� shoi Sayan, Munku-Sardyk, Tunkinskie Gol� tsy, distribution area, molecular genetic analysis, modeling of potential habitats | ||||
Abstract | A field survey of snow leopard (Panthera uncia) habitats was carried out in the southeastern part of the Eastern Sayan Mountains (Okinskii and Tunkinskii districts of the Republic of Buryatia and the Kaa- Khemskii district of Tuva Republic). Seven or eight adult snow leopards were observed as constant inhabitants of the Tunkinskie Gol'tsy, Munku-Sardyk, and Bol'shoi Sayan mountain ridges. The presence of eight snow leopards was confirmed using DNA-based analyses of scats collected in 2014 – 2016. The main prey species of the snow leopard in Eastern Sayan is the Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica), but its abundance has steadily decreased over the past 20 years. The red deer (Cervus elaphus) and the wild boar (Sus scrofa), which were some of the most numerous ungulates in the survey area, are replacing the Siberian ibex in the snow leopard's diet. In addition, the mountain hare (Lepus timidus) is also of importance to the snow leopard's diet. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1482 | ||
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Author | Shrestha, A., Thapa, K., Subba, S. A., Dhakal, M., Devkota, B. P., Thapa, G. J., Shrestha, S., Malla, S., Thapa, K. | ||||
Title | Cats, canines, and coexistence: dietary differentiation between the sympatric Snow Leopard and Grey Wolf in the western landscape of Nepal Himalaya | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | Journal of Threatened Taxa | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 11 | Issue | 7 | Pages | 13815-13821 |
Keywords | Canis lupus, dietary pattern, dietary overlap, livestock, Naur, negative interaction, Panthera uncia, scat analysis, sympatry | ||||
Abstract | Understanding the dietary habits of sympatric apex carnivores advances our knowledge of ecological processes and aids their conservation. We compared the diets of the sympatric Snow Leopard Panthera uncia and Grey Wolf Canis lupus using standard micro-histological analyses of scats collected from the western complex of Nepal Himalaya. Our study revealed one of the highest recorded contributions of livestock to the diet of top predators (55% for Grey Wolf and 39% for Snow Leopard) and high dietary overlap (0.82) indicating potential exploitative or interference competition. Their diet composition, however, varied significantly based on their consumption of wild and domestic prey. Limitation in data precludes predicting direction and outcome of inter-specific interactions between these predators. Our findings suggest a high rate of negative interaction with humans in the region and plausibly retaliatory killings of these imperilled predators. To ensure the sustained survival of these two apex carnivores, conservation measures should enhance populations of their wild prey species while reducing livestock losses of the local community through preventive and mitigative interventions. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1485 | ||
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Author | Li, J., Weckworth, B. V., McCarthy, T. M., Liang, X., Liu, Y., Xing, R., Li, D., Zhang, Y., Xue, Y., Jackson, R., Xiao, L., Cheng, C., Li, S., Xu, F., Ma, M., Yang, X., Diao, K., Gao, Y., Song, D., Nowell, K., He, B., Li, Y., McCarthy, K., Paltsyn, M. Y., Sharma, K., Mishra, C., Schaller, G. B., Lu, Z., Beissinger, S. R. | ||||
Title | Defining priorities for global snow leopard conservation landscapes | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | Biological Conservation | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 241 | Issue | 108387 | Pages | 1-10 |
Keywords | Panthera uncia, Conservation prioritization, Landscape Conservation Unit, Connectivity, Linkage | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is an apex predator on the Tibetan Plateau and in the surrounding mountain ranges. It is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN's Red List. The large home range and low population densities of this species mandate range-wide conservation prioritization. Two efforts for range-wide snow leopard conservation planning have been conducted based on expert opinion, but both were constrained by limited knowledge and the difficulty of evaluating complex processes, such as connectivity across large landscapes. Here, we compile > 6000 snow leopard occurrence records from across its range and corresponding environmental covariates to build a model of global snow leopard habitat suitability. Using spatial prioritization tools, we identi!ed seven large continuous habitat patches as global snow leopard Landscape Conservation Units (LCUs). Each LCU faces differing threat levels from poaching, anthropogenic development, and climate change. We identi!ed ten po- tential inter-LCU linkages, and centrality analysis indicated that Tianshan-Pamir-Hindu Kush-Karakorum, Altai, and the linkage between them play a critical role in maintaining the global snow leopard habitat connectivity. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1490 | ||
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Author | Aruge, S., Batool, H., Khan, F. M., Abbas, F. I., Janjua, S | ||||
Title | A pilot study�genetic diversity and population structure of snow leopards of Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan, using molecular techniques. | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2019 | Publication | PeerJ | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | 7672 | Pages | 1-14 | |
Keywords | Population, Genetics, Panthera uncia, Pakistan, Molecular markers | ||||
Abstract | Background: The Hindu Kush and Karakoram mountain ranges in Pakistan�s northern areas are a natural habitat of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia syn. Uncia uncia) but the ecological studies on this animal are scarce since it is human shy by nature and lives in dif!cult mountainous tracts. The pilot study is conducted to exploit the genetic diversity and population structure of the snow leopard in this selected natural habitat of the member of the wildcat family in Pakistan. Method: About 50 putative scat samples of snow leopard from !ve localities of Gilgit-Baltistan (Pakistan) along with a control sample of zoo maintained male snow leopard were collected for comparison. Signi!cant quality and quantity of genomic DNA was extracted from scat samples using combined Zhang�phenol�chloroform method and successful ampli!cation of cytochrome c oxidase I gene (190 bp) using mini-barcode primers, seven simple sequence repeats (SSR) markers and Y-linked AMELY gene (200 bp) was done. Results: Cytochrome c oxidase I gene sequencing suggested that 33/50 (66%) scat samples were of snow leopard. AMELY primer suggested that out of 33 ampli!ed samples, 21 (63.63%) scats were from male and 12 (36.36%) from female leopards. Through successful ampli!cation of DNA of 25 out of 33 (75.75%) scat samples using SSR markers, a total of 68 alleles on seven SSR loci were identi!ed, showing low heterozygosity, while high gene "ow between population. Discussion: The low gene flow rate among the population results in low genetic diversity causing decreased diversi!cation. This affects the adaptability to climatic changes, thus ultimately resulting in decreased population size of the species. |
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1491 | ||
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Author | Samelius, G., Suryawanshi, K., Frank, J., Agvaantseren, B., Baasandamba, E., Mijiddorj, T., Johansson, O., Tumursukh, L., Mishra, C. | ||||
Title | Keeping predators out: testing fences to reduce livestock depredation at night-time corrals | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2020 | Publication | Oryx | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-7 | ||
Keywords | Canis lupus, carnivore conservation, coexistence, conflict mitigation, conservation conflict, livestock depreda- tion, Panthera uncia, preventative measure | ||||
Abstract | Livestock depredation by large carnivores is a global conservation challenge, and mitigation measures to reduce livestock losses are crucial for the coexistence of large carnivores and people. Various measures are employed to reduce livestock depredation but their effectiveness has rarely been tested. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of tall fences to reduce livestock losses to snow leopards Panthera uncia and wolves Canis lupus at night-time corrals at the winter camps of livestock herders in the Tost Mountains in southern Mongolia. Self-reported livestock losses at the fenced corrals were reduced from a mean loss of 3.9 goats and sheep per family and winter prior to the study to zero losses in the two winters of the study. In contrast, self-reported livestock losses in winter pastures, and during the rest of the year, when herders used different camps, remained high, which indicates that livestock losses were reduced because of the fences, not because of temporal variation in predation pressure. Herder attitudes towards snow leopards were positive and remained positive during the study, whereas attitudes towards wolves, which attacked livestock also in summer when herders moved out on the steppes, were negative and worsened during the study. This study showed that tall fences can be very effective at reducing night-time losses at corrals and we conclude that fences can be an important tool for snow leopard conservation and for facilitating the coexistence of snow leopards and people. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1492 | ||
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Author | Poyarkov, A. D., Munkhtsog, B., Korablev, M. P., Kuksin, A. N., Alexandrov, D. Y., Chistopolova, M. D.,Hernandez-Blanco, J. A., Munkhtogtokh, O., Karnaukhov, A. S., Lkhamsuren, N., Bayaraa, M., Jackson, R. M., Maheshwari, A., Rozhnov, V. V. | ||||
Title | Assurance of the existence of a trans-boundary population of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) at Tsagaanshuvuut – Tsagan- Shibetu SPA at the Mongolia-Russia border | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2020 | Publication | Integrative Zoology | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | 15 | Pages | 224-231 | |
Keywords | FST, home range, Panthera uncia, snow leopard, trans-boundary population | ||||
Abstract | The existence of a trans-boundary population of the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) that inhabits the massifs of Tsagaanshuvuut (Mongolia) – Tsagan-Shibetu (Russia) was determined through non-invasive genetic analysis of scat samples and by studying the structure of territory use by a collared female individual. The genetic analysis included species identification of samples through sequencing of a fragment of the cytochrome b gene and individual identification using a panel of 8 microsatellites. The home range of a female snow leopard marked with a satellite Global Positioning System (GPS) collar was represented by the minimum convex polygon method (MCP) 100, the MCP 95 method and the fixed kernel 95 method. The results revealed insignificant genetic differentiation between snow leopards that inhabit both massifs (minimal fixation index [FST]), and the data testify to the unity of the cross-border group. Moreover, 5 common individuals were identified from Mongolian and Russian territories. This finding clearly shows that their home range includes territories of both countries. In addition, regular movement of a collared snow leopard in Mongolia and Russia confirmed the existence of a cross-border snow leopard group. These data support that trans-boundary conservation is important for snow leopards in both countries. We conclude that it is crucial for Russia to study the northern range of snow leopards in Asia. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1493 | ||
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Author | Salvatori, M., Tenan, S., Oberosler, V., Augugliaro, C., Christe, P., Groff, C., Krofel, M., Zimmermann, F., Rovero, F. | ||||
Title | Co-occurrence of snow leopard, wolf and Siberian ibex under livestock encroachment into protected areas across the Mongolian Altai | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2021 | Publication | Biological Conservatio | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 261 | Issue | 109294 | Pages | 1-14 |
Keywords | Camera-trapping, Panthera uncia, Canis lupus, Capra sibirica, Occupancy, Human-wildlife conflicts, Activity pattern | ||||
Abstract | In countries such as Mongolia, where globalization of the cashmere market has spurred herders to massively increase their livestock numbers, an important conservation concern is the effect of livestock encroachment on wildlife. This is especially important inside protected areas (PAs), which often represent the last refugia for threatened large mammals. We used camera-traps to sample four areas with different protection status across the Mongolian Altai Mountains, and targeted a predator-prey system composed of livestock, one large herbivore, the Siberian ibex, and two large carnivores, the snow leopard and the wolf. To determine the effect of livestock on habitat use by the wild species and their spatio-temporal co-occurrence we applied an occupancy framework explicitly developed for modelling interacting species. We recorded a widespread presence of domestic animals in the PAs, and observed avoidance of sites used by livestock by snow leopard and ibex, while wolves tended to co-occur with it. Snow leopard and ibex showed clear mutual co-occurrence, indicating a tight predator-prey relationship. Results provide evidence that, at the scale of sites sampled primarily to maximise snow leopard detections, grazing livestock interferes with wild species by inducing avoidance in snow leopards, and attraction in wolves. We suggest that (1) PAs management should enforce real grazing limitations on the ground, especially in the core areas of the parks; (2) new policies incorporating wildlife conservation into government subsidies to pastoralists should be envisaged, to prevent increasing displacement of snow leopards and ibex; (3) as wolves co- occurred with livestock, with the potential for human-wildlife conflicts, we encourage the use of a set of prevention techniques to mitigate livestock depredation. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1659 | ||
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Author | Oberosler, V., Tenan, S., Groff, C., Krofel, M., Augugliaro, C., Munkhtsog, B., Rovero, F. | ||||
Title | First spatially‐explicit density estimate for a snow leopard population in the Altai Mountains | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2021 | Publication | Biodiversity and Conservation | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 15 | ||
Keywords | Camera trapping · Conservation · Abundance · Felids · Activity range · Mongolia · Panthera uncia · Spatial capture-recapture | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard Panthera uncia is an elusive and globally-threatened apex predator occurring in the mountain ranges of central Asia. As with other large carnivores, gaps in data on its distribution and abundance still persist. Moreover, available density estimates are often based on inadequate sampling designs or analytical approaches. Here, we used camera trapping across a vast mountainous area (area of the sampling frame 850 km2; analysed habitat extent 2600 km2) and spatially-explicit capture-recapture (SECR) models to provide, to our knowledge, the first robust snow leopard population density estimate for the Altai Mountains. This region is considered one of the most important conservation areas for snow leopards, representing a vast portion of suitable habitat and a key ecological corridor. We also provide estimates of the scale parameter (σ) that reflects ranging behaviour (activity range) and baseline encounter probability, and investigated potential drivers of density and related parameters by assessing their associations with anthropogenic and environmental factors. Sampling yielded 9729 images of snow leopards corresponding to 224 independent detections that belonged to a minimum of 23 identified adult individuals. SECR analysis resulted in an overall density of 1.31 individuals/100 km2 (1.15%–1.50 95% CI), which was positively correlated with terrain slope. This estimate falls within the mid-values of the range of density estimates for the species globally. We estimated significantly different activity range size for females and males (79 and 329 km2, respectively). Base- line encounter probability was negatively associated with anthropogenic activity. Our study contributes to on-going efforts to produce robust global estimates of population abundance for this top carnivore. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1662 | ||
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Author | Rashid, W., Shi, J., Rahim, I. U., Qasim, M., Baloch, M. N., Bohnett, E., Yang, F., Khan, I., Ahmad, B. | ||||
Title | Modelling Potential Distribution of Snow Leopards in Pamir, Northern Pakistan: Implications for Human–Snow Leopard Conflicts | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2021 | Publication | Sustainability | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 13 | Issue | 13229 | Pages | 1-15 |
Keywords | habitat fragmentation; habitat suitability; land use/cover change; Panthera uncia; MaxEnt model | ||||
Abstract | The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is a cryptic and rare big cat inhabiting Asia’s remote and harsh elevated areas. Its population has decreased across the globe for various reasons, includ | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1664 | ||
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Author | Thapa, K., Jackson, R., Gurung, L, Acharya, H. B., Gurung, R. K., | ||||
Title | Applying the double observer methodology for assessing blue sheep population size in Nar Phu valley, Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2021 | Publication | Wildlife Biology | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | Issue | Pages | 1-11 | ||
Keywords | blue sheep, density estimation, double observer counts, Nepal, Panthera uncia, prey abundance, Pseudois nayaur, snow leopard, viewshed mapping | ||||
Abstract | This study was undertaken in spring, 2019 to assess the applicability of the double-observer survey method for estimating blue sheep Pseudois nayaur abundance in Nar-Phu valley of Manang District located in Annapurna Conservation Area of northern Nepal. Since counting large mammals in rugged mountain habitat poses a special challenge, we tested the efficacy of the double observer method for generating robust population estimates for this important protected area. The overall detection probability for observers (O1 and O2) was 0.94 and 0.91 for a total of 106 groups comprised of 2059 individual blue sheep. We estimated the area’s blue sheep population at 2070 (SE ± 168.77; 95% CI 2059–2405) for the 246.2 km2 of sampled habitat. We determined blue sheep to be widely distributed within the study area with a mean density of 8.4 individuals per km2 based on a total study area of 246.2 km2. We discuss demographic population structure and identify limitations when applying the double observer approach, along with recommending viewshed mapping for ensuring more robust density estimates of mountain-dwelling ungulates like blue sheep or ibex that inhabit extremely heterogeneous terrain which strongly influences sighting distances and overall animal detection rates. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1666 | ||
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Author | Pahuja, M., Sharma, R. K. | ||||
Title | Wild Predators, Livestock, and Free Ranging Dogs: Patterns of Livestock Mortality and Attitudes of People Toward Predators in an Urbanizing Trans-Himalayan Landscape | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2021 | Publication | Frontiers in Conservation Science | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 2 | Issue | 109 | Pages | 1-13 |
Keywords | Canis lupus, human-wildlife relationships, human-wildlife conflict (HWC), livestock depredation, multiple use landscapes, Panthera uncia, pastoralism, urban wildlife | ||||
Abstract | Livestock depredation by large carnivores is a significant source of conflicts over predators and an important conservation and economic concern. Preventing livestock loss to wild predators is a substantial focus of human-carnivore conflict mitigation programs. A key assumption of the preventive strategy is reduction in the livestock losses leading to a positive shift in the attitudes toward predators. Therefore, it is important to quantify the true extent of livestock mortality caused by wild predators and its influence on attitudes of the affected communities. We examined seasonal and spatial patterns of livestock mortality and factors influencing people’s attitudes toward wild predators i.e., snow leopards (Panthera uncia) and wolves (Canis lupus chanco) and free-ranging dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) in a Trans-Himalayan urbanizing landscape in India. We used systematic sampling to select the survey households and implemented a semi- structured questionnaire to respondents. The sampled villages (n = 16) represent a mosaic of urban and agricultural ecosystems within a radius of 40 km of Leh town. In 2016–2017, 93% of the sampled households lost livestock to predators, accounting for 0.93 animals per household per year. However, of the total events of livestock mortality, 33% were because of weather/natural events, 24% by snow leopards, 20% because of disease, 15% because of free-ranging dogs and 9% because of wolves. The annual economic loss per household because of livestock mortality was USD 371, a substantial loss given the average per capita income of USD 270 in the region. Of the total loss, weather/natural events caused highest loss of USD 131 (35%), followed by snow leopards USD 91 (25%), disease USD 87 (24%), free ranging dogs USD 48 (13%), and wolves USD 14 (4%). Despite losing a considerable proportion of livestock (33 %) to wild predators, respondents showed a positive attitude toward them but exhibited neutral attitudes toward free-ranging dogs. Gender emerged as the most important determinant of attitudes toward wild predators, with men showing higher positive attitude score toward wild predators than women. Our findings highlight the context specific variation in human-wildlife interactions and emphasize that generalizations must be avoided in the absence of site specific evidence. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1667 | ||
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Author | Filla, M., Lama, R. P., Ghale, T. R., Filla, T., Heurich, M., Waltert, M., Khorozyan, I. | ||||
Title | Blue sheep strongly affect snow leopard relative abundance but not livestock depredation in the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2022 | Publication | Global Ecology and Conservation | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 37 | Issue | e02153 | Pages | 1-15 |
Keywords | Co-existence, Himalayan marmot, Human-wildlife conflict, Intervention strategy, Panthera uncia, Pseudois nayaur | ||||
Abstract | Large carnivores play key roles in their ecosystems, but their protection is a major challenge in biodiversity conservation due to conflicts with human interests. The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is the top predator of Asian high-altitude landscapes and faces various threats including wild prey depletion and illegal killings as a consequence of livestock depredation. As the interactions between snow leopards, wild prey, and livestock are still insufficiently understood, we studied the effects of 1) wild prey (blue sheep Pseudois nayaur and Himalayan marmots Marmota himalayana) and domestic prey on snow leopard relative abundance, and of 2) these ecological parameters and intervention applications on livestock depredation by snow leopards. In the Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal, we monitored wildlife populations and livestock along transects (490.8 km) in 82 grid cells (4 ×4 km) in 2019 and 2021 and conducted questionnaire surveys to determine livestock depredation between 2018 and 2021 (n = 479 households). We applied generalized linear models (GLMs) and sample comparison testing to examine the effects of prey densities and other environmental and anthropogenic predictors on snow leopard relative abundance and livestock depredation. Blue sheep density strongly positively affected snow leopard relative abundance, which also increased with terrain ruggedness and decreased with increasing densities of livestock and the human population. The size of livestock holdings shaped depredation events of large livestock (yak, cattle and horse), whereas depredation events of sheep and goats, which accounted for most (68.6%) depredated animals, decreased with increasing human population density and marmot presence. The strong impact of blue sheep on snow leopard relative abundance supports demands for integrating this ungulate into conservation and management plans, including wild prey recovery and translocation. The rather weak evidence for effects of blue sheep on depredation events suggests that conflicts over livestock depredation by snow leopards would neither be inflicted nor solved by increasing wild prey abundance. This demonstrates the need to improve intervention strategies in the Annapurna region, such as predator-proofing corrals and optimizing daytime herding practices. We suggest further exploring the effects of marmots and other secondary prey on livestock depredation rates, and testing the suitability of additional interventions, e.g., dogs and deterrents, as conflict mitigation tools. Our results will support wildlife managers in setting conservation priorities to promote the long-term co-existence of local people and snow leopards. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1682 | ||
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Author | Filla, M., Lama, R. P., Ghale, T. R., Signer, J., Filla, T., Aryal, R. R., Heurich, M., Waltert, M., Balkenhol, N., Khorozyan, I. | ||||
Title | In the shadows of snow leopards and the Himalayas: density and habitat selection of blue sheep in Manang, Nepal | Type | Journal Article | ||
Year | 2020 | Publication | Ecology and Evolution | Abbreviated Journal | |
Volume | 2021 | Issue | 11 | Pages | 108-122 |
Keywords | Annapurna Conservation Area, bharal, Panthera uncia, predator-prey, Pseudois nayaur | ||||
Abstract | There is a growing agreement that conservation needs to be proactive and pay increased attention to common species and to the threats they face. The blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) plays a key ecological role in sensitive high-altitude ecosystems of Central Asia and is among the main prey species for the globally vulnerable snow leopard (Panthera uncia). As the blue sheep has been increasingly exposed to human pressures, it is vital to estimate its population dynamics, protect the key populations, identify important habitats, and secure a balance between conservation and local livelihoods. We conducted a study in Manang, Annapurna Conservation Area (Nepal), to survey blue sheep on 60 transects in spring (127.9 km) and 61 transects in autumn (134.7 km) of 2019, estimate their minimum densities from total counts, compare these densities with previous estimates, and assess blue sheep habitat selection by the application of generalized additive models (GAMs). Total counts yielded minimum density estimates of 6.0–7.7 and 6.9–7.8 individuals/km2 in spring and autumn, respectively, which are relatively high compared to other areas. Elevation and, to a lesser extent, land cover indicated by the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) strongly affected habitat selection by blue sheep, whereas the effects of anthropogenic variables were insignificant. Animals were found mainly in habitats associated with grasslands and shrublands at elevations between 4,200 and 4,700 m. We show that the blue sheep population size in Manang has been largely maintained over the past three decades, indicating the success of the integrated conservation and development efforts in this area. Considering a strong dependence of snow leopards on blue sheep, these findings give hope for the long-term conservation of this big cat in Manang. We suggest that long-term population monitoring and a better understanding of blue sheep–livestock interactions are crucial to maintain healthy populations of blue sheep and, as a consequence, of snow leopards. | ||||
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Call Number | SLN @ rakhee @ | Serial | 1683 | ||
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