Who Are the Trailblazing Women Safeguarding India's Snow Leopards?

In an inspiring shift, women in India's Spiti Valley have taken on pivotal roles in conserving the elusive snow leopard, an apex predator vital to the region's ecosystem. This change highlights a growing recognition of the species' ecological importance and marks a significant transformation in local attitudes towards wildlife conservation.

Last updated: 29 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

The snow leopard, known as Shen locally, is experiencing a resurgence in conservation efforts in the Spiti Valley, with a group of local women taking the lead. These women, collectively known as "Shenmo", work alongside the Himachal Pradesh forest department and conservationists to monitor and protect snow leopards. The recent 2023 survey estimated over 700 snow leopards in India, with the Spiti Valley being a significant habitat, highlighting the effectiveness of community involvement in wildlife conservation.

Key takeaways

Women in Spiti Valley are actively participating in snow leopard conservation efforts.
The 2023 survey identified over 700 snow leopards in India, a significant increase from previous estimates.
Community-based conservation is reshaping local attitudes towards wildlife.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey towards recognising the snow leopard's importance and engaging local communities in conservation has evolved over the years. Here’s a brief timeline of key developments:

2021: Initial estimates recorded 51 snow leopards in Himachal Pradesh.
2023: First comprehensive snow leopard survey conducted, revealing a population of over 700 in India.
2024: Follow-up survey in Himachal Pradesh identifies 83 snow leopards, up from previous counts.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The involvement of local women in conservation efforts marks a notable shift in community engagement. They are not only participating in data collection but also helping change perceptions about snow leopards from threats to vital ecosystem components.

What was already established

Previously, snow leopards were primarily viewed as livestock threats, leading to negative attitudes among villagers. Conservation efforts were minimal, and wildlife monitoring was predominantly a male-dominated activity.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

As the value of biodiversity becomes more widely recognised, UK consumers might increasingly support products and practices that promote wildlife conservation globally, including initiatives like those in Spiti Valley.

Businesses and jobs

There is potential for UK businesses to engage in partnerships with conservation organisations, fostering sustainable practices that support both wildlife and local communities.

Policy and regulation

The efforts in Spiti Valley could serve as a model for UK conservation policies, highlighting the importance of community involvement in protecting local wildlife and ecosystems.

Numbers that matter

700: Estimated number of snow leopards in India as of 2023.
83: Number of snow leopards identified in Himachal Pradesh in 2024.
26,000 sq km: Area covered in the snow leopard survey.
500–700 rupees (£4) per day: Daily earnings for women involved in conservation efforts.

Definitions and jargon buster

Snow Leopard: An elusive big cat found in the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia, vital for ecological balance.
Conservation: The responsible management of natural resources to prevent exploitation and preserve biodiversity.
Camera Trap: A remotely activated camera used to capture images of wildlife for monitoring and research.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, continued data collection and community engagement will be essential for refining conservation strategies and ensuring the protection of snow leopards.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As awareness grows, there is potential for expanding conservation programmes, introducing educational initiatives, and enhancing community livelihoods through sustainable practices.

Signals to watch

Results from ongoing conservation surveys and data collection efforts.
Changes in local attitudes towards wildlife as conservation initiatives progress.
Government support and funding for conservation projects in the region.

Practical guidance

Do

Support sustainable products that promote wildlife conservation.
Engage in discussions about the importance of biodiversity and ecosystem health.

Don’t

Ignore the impact of climate change on wildlife habitats.
Overlook the role of local communities in conservation efforts.

Checklist

Consider supporting wildlife conservation charities.
Educate yourself on local and global biodiversity issues.
Advocate for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Future conservation efforts may face challenges due to climate change, which can alter snow leopard habitats and prey availability. Additionally, changing community dynamics and perceptions will require ongoing support and education to maintain engagement in conservation initiatives.

Bottom line

The transformation of local attitudes towards snow leopards in Spiti Valley highlights the importance of community involvement in conservation. As these women step into roles traditionally held by men, they not only help protect an endangered species but also reshape the narrative around wildlife and its significance in their ecosystem.

FAQs

What role do women play in snow leopard conservation?

Women in Spiti Valley are actively involved in tracking and protecting snow leopards, helping to install camera traps and collect data, which has shifted community perceptions of the species.

How many snow leopards are in India?

As of the 2023 survey, India is estimated to be home to over 700 snow leopards, with Himachal Pradesh reporting 83 in a follow-up survey in 2024.

Why are snow leopards important for the ecosystem?

Snow leopards are apex predators, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their mountain ecosystems by regulating prey populations and supporting biodiversity.