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Author Khanal, G., Mishra, C., Suryawanshi, K. R.
Title Relative influence of wild prey and livestock abundance on carnivore-caused livestock predation Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Ecology and Evolution Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-11
Keywords conservation conflict, human carnivore conflict, large mammalian carnivore, livestock depredation, Nepal, Shey Phoksundo National Park, snow leopard
Abstract Conservation conflict over livestock depredation is one of the

key drivers of large mammalian carnivore declines worldwide. Mitigating

this conflict requires strategies informed by reliable knowledge of

factors influencing livestock depredation. Wild prey and livestock

abundance are critical factors influencing the extent of livestock

depredation. We compared whether the extent of livestock predation by

snow leopards Panthera uncia differed in relation to densities of wild

prey, livestock, and snow leopards at two sites in Shey Phoksundo

National Park, Nepal. We used camera trap-based spatially explicit

capture–recapture models to estimate snow leopard density;

double-observer surveys to estimate the density of their main prey

species, the blue sheep Pseudois nayaur; and interview-based household

surveys to estimate livestock population and number of livestock killed

by snow leopards. The proportion of livestock lost per household was

seven times higher in Upper Dolpa, the site which had higher snow

leopard density (2.51 snow leopards per 100 km2) and higher livestock

density (17.21 livestock per km2) compared to Lower Dolpa (1.21 snow

leopards per 100 km2; 4.5 livestock per km2). The wild prey density was

similar across the two sites (1.81 and 1.57 animals per km2 in Upper and

Lower Dolpa, respectively). Our results suggest that livestock

depredation level may largely be determined by the abundances of the

snow leopards and livestock and predation levels on livestock can vary

even at similar levels of wild prey density. In large parts of the snow

leopard range, livestock production is indispensable to local

livelihoods and livestock population is expected to increase to meet the

demand of cashmere. Hence, we recommend that any efforts to increase

livestock populations or conservation initiatives aimed at recovering or

increasing snow leopard population be accompanied by better herding

practices (e.g., predator-proof corrals) to protect livestock from snow

leopard.
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Call Number Serial 1611
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Author Young, J. C., Alexander, J. S., Bijoor, A., Sharma, D., Dutta, A., Agvaantseren, B., Mijiddorj, T. N., Jumabay, K., Amankul, V., Kabaeva, B., Nawaz, A., Khan, S., Ali, H., Rullman, J. S., Sharma, K., Murali, R., Mishra, C.
Title Community-Based Conservation for the Sustainable Management of Conservation Conflicts: Learning from Practitioners Type Journal
Year 2021 Publication Sustainability Abbreviated Journal
Volume 13 Issue Pages 1-20
Keywords community-based conservation; snow leopards; participation; conflict; narratives; story- telling; conflict management
Abstract We explore the role of community-based conservation (CBC) in the sustainable management of conservation conflicts by examining the experiences of conservation practitioners trying to address conflicts between snow leopard conservation and pastoralism in Asian mountains. Practitioner experiences are examined through the lens of the PARTNERS principles for CBC (Presence, Aptness, Respect, Transparency, Negotiation, Empathy, Responsiveness, and Strategic Support) that represent an inclusive conservation framework for effective and ethical engagement with local communities. Case studies from India, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Pakistan show that resilient relationships arising from respectful engagement and negotiation with local communities can provide a strong platform for robust conflict management. We highlight the heuristic value of documenting practitioner experiences in on-the-ground conflict management and community-based conservation efforts.
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Call Number Serial 1641
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Author Karki, A., Panthi, S.
Title Factors affecting livestock depredation by snow leopards (Panthera uncia) in the Himalayan region of Nepal Type Journal Article
Year 2021 Publication PeerJ Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue e11575 Pages 1-14
Keywords Conflict,Habitat,Himalaya,Livestockdepredation,Modeling,Snowleopard,Wildlife management
Abstract The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) found in central Asia is classified as vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Every year, large number of livestock are killed by snow leopards in Nepal, leading to economic loss to local communities and making human-snow leopard conflict a major threat to snow leopard conservation. We conducted formal and informal stakeholder’s interviews to gather information related to livestock depredation with the aim to map the attack sites by the snow leopard. These sites were further validated by district forest office staffs to assess sources of bias. Attack sites older than 3 years were removed from the survey. We found 109 attack sites and visited all the sites for geo location purpose (GPS points of all unique sites were taken). We maintained at least a 100 m distance between attack locations to ensure that each attack location was unique, which resulted in 86 unique locations. A total of 235 km2 was used to define livestock depredation risk zone during this study. Using Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) modeling, we found that distance to livestock sheds, distance to paths, aspect, and distance to roads were major contributing factors to the snow leopard’s attacks. We identified 13.64 km2 as risk zone for livestock depredation from snow leopards in the study area. Furthermore, snow leopards preferred to attack livestock near livestock shelters, far from human paths and at moderate distance from motor roads. These identified attack zones should be managed both for snow leopard conservation and livestock protection in order to balance human livelihoods while protecting snow leopards and their habitats.
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Call Number Serial 1640
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Author Atzeni, L., Cushman, S. A., Bai, D., Wang, J., Chen, P., Shi, K., Riordan, P.
Title Meta-replication, sampling bias, and multi-scale model selection: A case study on snow leopard (Panthera uncia) in western China. Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Ecology and Evolution Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-27
Keywords MaxEnt, meta-replication, multi-scale, Panthera uncia, sampling bias, scale selection, snow leopard, species distribution model
Abstract Replicated multiple scale species distribution models (SDMs)

have become increasingly important to identify the correct variables

determining species distribution and their influences on ecological

responses. This study explores multi-scale habitat relationships of the

snow leopard (Panthera uncia) in two study areas on the Qinghai–Tibetan

Plateau of western China. Our primary objectives were to evaluate the

degree to which snow leopard habitat relationships, expressed by

predictors, scales of response, and magnitude of effects, were

consistent across study areas or locally landcape-specific. We coupled

univariate scale optimization and the maximum entropy algorithm to

produce multivariate SDMs, inferring the relative suitability for the

species by ensembling top performing models. We optimized the SDMs based

on average omission rate across the top models and ensembles’ overlap

with a simulated reference model. Comparison of SDMs in the two study

areas highlighted landscape-specific responses to limiting factors.

These were dependent on the effects of the hydrological network,

anthropogenic features, topographic complexity, and the heterogeneity of

the landcover patch mosaic. Overall, even accounting for specific local

differences, we found general landscape attributes associated with snow

leopard ecological requirements, consisting of a positive association

with uplands and ridges, aggregated low-contrast landscapes, and large

extents of grassy and herbaceous vegetation. As a means to evaluate the

performance of two bias correction methods, we explored their effects on

three datasets showing a range of bias intensities. The performance of

corrections depends on the bias intensity; however, density kernels

offered a reliable correction strategy under all circumstances. This

study reveals the multi-scale response of snow leopards to environmental

attributes and confirms the role of meta-replicated study designs for

the identification of spatially varying limiting factors. Furthermore,

this study makes important contributions to the ongoing discussion about

the best approaches for sampling bias correction.
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Call Number Serial 1616
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Author Zhang, L., Lian, X., Yang, X
Title Population density of snow leopards (Panthera Uncia) in the Yage Valley Region of the Sanjiangyuan National Park: Conservation Implications and future directions Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Artic, Antartic and Alpine Research Abbreviated Journal
Volume 52 Issue 1 Pages 541-550
Keywords Snow leopard; population density; camera trapping; Tibetan Plateau; alpine ecosystem
Abstract Population-based studies on snow leopard (Panthera uncia) are of theoretical and practical sig- nificance for the conservation of alpine ecosystems, though geographic remoteness and isolation hinder surveys in many promising regions. The Sanjiangyuan National Park on the Tibetan Plateau is acknowledged as a main snow leopard habitat, but most of the region remains unexplored and unknown. We adopted a combined approach of route survey and camera trapping survey to explore the population density of snow leopard in the Yage Valley region of the Sanjiangyuan National Park. Results indicated that (1) large populations of blue sheep contributed to the major food supply for snow leopards, along with diverse prey species as dietary supplementations, and (2) a population density of four to six snow leopards per 100 km2 on the north bank was estimated, and nine to fourteen individuals within the valley core areas were identified. We also argue that under the potential impacts of hydropower dams, this valley ecosystem should be symbolized as a conservation hotspot and therefore merits prioritized conservation. We recommend further surveys combined with novel methods/techniques and advocate a sustainable ecotourism model for the first V-shaped valley along the Yangtze mainstream.
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Call Number Serial 1619
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Author Rashid, W., Shi, J., Rahim, I. U., Dong, S., Sultan, H.
Title Issues and Opportunities Associated with Trophy Hunting and Tourism in Khunjerab National Park, Northern Pakistan Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Animals Abbreviated Journal
Volume 10 Issue 597 Pages 1-20
Keywords trophy hunting; mass tourism; Pamir; eco-tourism; human-Snow leopard conflict
Abstract Trophy hunting and mass tourism are the two major interventions designed to provide various socioeconomic and ecological benefits at the local and regional levels. However, these interventions have raised some serious concerns that need to be addressed. This study was conducted in Khunjerab National Park (KNP) with an aim to analyze comparatively the socioeconomic and ecological impacts of trophy hunting and mass tourism over the last three decades within the context of sustainability. Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with key stakeholders and household interviews were conducted to collect data on trophy hunting and mass tourism, and on local attitudes towards these two interventions in and around KNP. The results revealed that 170 Ibex (Capra sibirica) and 12 Blue sheep (Pseudois nayaur) were hunted in the study area over the past three decades, and trophy hunting was not based on a sustainable harvest level. Trophy hunting on average generated USD 16,272 annual revenue, which was invested in community development. However, trophy hunting has greatly changed the attitudes of local residents towards wildlife: a positive attitude towards the wild ungulates and strongly negative attitude towards wild carnivores. In addition, trophy hunting has reduced the availability of ungulate prey species for Snow leopards (Panthera uncia), and consequently, Snow leopards have increased their predation on domestic livestock. This has, in turn, increased human–snow leopard conflict, as negative attitudes towards carnivores result in retaliatory killing of Snow leopards. Furthermore, according to ocial record data, the number of tourists to KNP has increased tremendously by 10,437.8%, from 1382 in 1999 to 145,633 in 2018. Mass tourism on average generated USD 33,904 annually and provided opportunities for locals to earn high incomes, but it caused damages to the environment and ecosystem in KNP through pollution generation and negative impacts on wildlife. Considering the limited benefits and significant problems created by trophy hunting and mass tourism, we suggest trophy hunting should be stopped and mass tourism should be shifted to ecotourism in and around KNP. Ecotourism could mitigate human–Snow leopard conflicts and help conserve the fragile ecosystem, while generating enough revenue incentives for the community to protect biodiversity and compensate for livestock depredation losses to Snow leopards. Our results may have implications for management of trophy hunting and mass tourism in other similar regions that deserve further investigation.
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Call Number Serial 1621
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Author Koju. N. P, , Bashyal, B., Pandey, B. P., Shah, S. N., Thami, S. ,Bleisch, W. V.
Title First camera-trap record of the snow leopard Panthera uncia in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Oryx Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-4
Keywords Camera trap, corridor, Gaurishankar Conser- vation Area, Nepal, Panthera uncia, prey abundance, transboundary, snow leopard
Abstract The snow leopard Panthera uncia is the flagship species of the high mountains of the Himalayas. There is po- tentially continuous habitat for the snow leopard along the northern border of Nepal, but there is a gap in information about the snow leopard in Gaurishankar Conservation Area. Previous spatial analysis has suggested that the Lamabagar area in this Conservation Area could serve as a transbound- ary corridor for snow leopards, and that the area may con- nect local populations, creating a metapopulation. However, there has been no visual confirmation of the species in Lamabagar. We set !! infrared camera traps for " months in Lapchi Village of Gaurishankar Conservation Area, where blue sheep Pseudois nayaur, musk deer Moschus leucogaster and Himalayan tahr Hemitragus jemlahicus, all snow leopard prey species, had been observed. In November #$!% at &,!$$ m, ' km south-west of Lapchi Village, one camera recorded three images of a snow leopard, the first photographic evidence of the species in the Conservation Area. Sixteen other species of mammals were also recorded. Camera-trap records and sightings indicated a high abun- dance of Himalayan tahr, blue sheep and musk deer. Lapchi Village may be a potentially important corridor for snow leopard movement between the east and west of Nepal and northwards to Quomolongma National Park in China. However, plans for development in the region present in- creasing threats to this corridor. We recommend develop- ment of a transboundary conservation strategy for snow leopard conservation in this region, with participation of Nepal, China and international agencies.
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Call Number Serial 1622
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Author Tiwari, M. P., Devkota, B. P., Jackson, R. M., Chhetri, B. B. K., Bagale, S.
Title What Factors Predispose Households in Trans-Himalaya (Central Nepal) to Livestock Predation by Snow Leopards? Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Animals Abbreviated Journal
Volume 10 Issue 2187 Pages 1-14
Keywords human-snow leopard conflict; livestock predation; Narphu valley; trans-Himalaya
Abstract Livestock depredation across the trans-Himalaya causes

significant economic losses to pastoralist communities. Quantification

of livestock predation and the assessment of variables associated with

depredation are crucial for designing effective long-term mitigation

measures. We investigated the patterns and factors of livestock

depredation by snow leopards (Panthera uncia) using semi-structured

questionnaires targeting herders in the Narphu valley of the Annapurna

Conservation Area, Nepal. During the two years (2017/18 and 2018/19),

73.9% of the households interviewed (n = 65) lost livestock to snow

leopards, with an annual average loss of two livestock per household. Of

the total depredation attributed to snow leopards, 55.4% were yak

(mainly female: 79%), 31.7% goat, 6.8% sheep, 3.2% horse and 2.8%

cattle. Results from applying Generalized Linear Mixed Models (GLMMs)

revealed the total number of livestock owned and the number of larger

bodied livestock species as the main explanatory covariates explaining

livestock depredation. Forty-one (41%) of all herders considered snow

leopard’s preference for domestic livestock as the main factor in

livestock predation, whereas only 5% perceived poor herding practice as

the main reason for the loss. Our study found poor and changing herding

practices in the valley, whereby 71% herders reported careful herding as

a solution to snow leopard depredation, and 15% of herders considered

the complete extermination of snow leopards as the best solution to the

problem. Tolerance levels and awareness among herders towards snow

leopard conservation is increasing, mainly due to the Buddhist religion

and strict law enforcement within this protected area. We recommend the

effective implementation of a community-based livestock insurance scheme

to compensate the economic loss of herders due to predation and improved

herding practices as the recommended mitigation measures for ensuring

livestock security and snow leopards’ conservation in the valley.
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Notes Approved no
Call Number Serial 1624
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Author Esson, C. , Skerratt, L. F. , Berger, L. , Malmsten, J., Strand, T. , Lundkvist, A., Järhult, J. D., Michaux, J., Mijiddorj, T. N., , Bayrakçısmith, R., Mishra, C., Johansson, O
Title Health and zoonotic Infections of snow leopards Panthera unica in the South Gobi desert of Mongolia Type Journal Article
Year 2019 Publication Infection Ecology & Epidemiology Abbreviated Journal
Volume 9 Issue 1604063 Pages 1-11
Keywords Snow leopard; zoonoses; conservation; one health; Mongolia; ticks
Abstract Background: Snow leopards, Panthera uncia, are a threatened apex predator, scattered across the mountains of Central and South Asia. Disease threats to wild snow leopards have not been investigated.

Methods and Results: Between 2008 and 2015, twenty snow leopards in the South Gobi desert of Mongolia were captured and immobilised for health screening and radio-collaring. Blood samples and external parasites were collected for pathogen analyses using enzyme- linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and next- generation sequencing (NGS) techniques. The animals showed no clinical signs of disease, however, serum antibodies to significant zoonotic pathogens were detected. These patho- gens included, Coxiella burnetii, (25% prevalence), Leptospira spp., (20%), and Toxoplasma gondii (20%). Ticks collected from snow leopards contained potentially zoonotic bacteria from the genera Bacillus, Bacteroides, Campylobacter, Coxiella, Rickettsia, Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.

Conclusions: The zoonotic pathogens identified in this study, in the short-term did not appear to cause illness in the snow leopards, but have caused illness in other wild felids. Therefore, surveillance for pathogens should be implemented to monitor for potential longer- term disease impacts on this snow leopard population.
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Call Number Serial 1625
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Author Sharma, K., Fiechter, M., George, T., Young, J., Alexander, J. S., Bijoor, Suryawanshi, K., Mishra, C.
Title Conservation and people: Towards an ethical code of conduct for the use of camera traps in wildlife research Type Journal Article
Year 2020 Publication Ecological Solutions and Evidence Abbreviated Journal
Volume Issue Pages 1-6
Keywords camera trap, code of conduct, ethics, human rights, law, PARTNERS principles for community- based conservation, privacy, snow leopard
Abstract 1. Camera trapping is a widely employed tool in wildlife

research, used to estimate animal abundances, understand animal

movement, assess species richness and under- stand animal behaviour. In

addition to images of wild animals, research cameras often record human

images, inadvertently capturing behaviours ranging from innocuous

actions to potentially serious crimes.

2. With the increasing use of camera traps, there is an urgent need to

reflect on how researchers should deal with human images caught on

cameras. On the one hand, it is important to respect the privacy of

individuals caught on cameras, while, on the other hand, there is a

larger public duty to report illegal activity. This creates ethical

dilemmas for researchers.

3. Here, based on our camera-trap research on snow leopards Panthera

uncia, we outline a general code of conduct to help improve the practice

of camera trap based research and help researchers better navigate the

ethical-legal tightrope of this important research tool.
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Notes Approved no
Call Number Serial 1626
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