Guwahati, May 16: Sikkim has confirmed the presence of 21 snow leopards in its high-altitude landscapes, according to the state’s first-ever comprehensive snow leopard population and density survey. Conducted by the Forest and Environment Department of Sikkim in partnership with WWF-India, the study is part of the nationwide Snow Leopard Population Assessment of India (SPAI) launched in 2022.
The report was released on the 50th Statehood Day of Sikkim.
Using over 210 camera traps placed across 99 sites in the remote and rugged terrain above 3,500 metres, researchers captured more than 64 photographic records of the elusive “ghost of the mountains.” Fourteen individual snow leopards were identified based on unique rosette patterns on their bodies, leading to an overall estimate of 21 snow leopards across a potential habitat of 5,179 square kilometres. The estimated density is 0.40 individuals per 100 square kilometres.
“This is a milestone for conservation science in Sikkim,” said Dr. Pradeep Kumar, Principal Secretary and PCCF of the Forest and Environment Department. “It confirms the presence of this iconic species and provides a scientific basis for future conservation planning.”
The study revealed that most snow leopard sightings occurred outside protected areas, particularly in the Lachen and Lachung Reserve Forests of northern Sikkim. This underscores the importance of community-managed landscapes and the need for inclusive conservation strategies.
One emerging concern identified in the report is the rising presence of feral dogs in snow leopard habitats, especially around defence establishments. These dogs, often sustained by food waste, compete with snow leopards for prey and may pose direct threats to their cubs. The report recommends better waste management practices in defence camps and targeted programs to control the feral dog population.
Another remarkable finding was the documentation of a Bengal tiger at 4,140 metres in Pakyong district—the highest known photographic record of the species in India to date. This unexpected discovery highlights the ecological richness of Sikkim’s high-altitude regions.
The SPAI Sikkim report includes several key recommendations: enhancing long-term ecological monitoring, engaging local communities such as the Dokpa herders and Dzumsas in conservation, promoting responsible eco-tourism, and strengthening cross-border collaboration with Nepal, China, and Bhutan.
“This survey shows that snow leopards continue to survive in Sikkim’s fragile mountain habitats,” said Ravi Singh, Secretary General and CEO of WWF-India. “But with climate change, habitat degradation, and human-wildlife conflict on the rise, we must act decisively to secure their future.”
As one of India’s smallest states, Sikkim plays a disproportionately important role in Himalayan biodiversity. This first-ever population estimate of its snow leopards marks a critical step in understanding and protecting one of the world’s most elusive and endangered big cats. The Forest and Environment Department plans to use the findings to shape conservation policies that integrate local knowledge with science-based strategies for long-term stewardship of the species and its habitat.
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