July 27th, 2009
The latest census on tigers and snow leopards in Nepal shows a fall in the numbers of both species. The tiger population has declined, albeit slightly, from 123 in 2003 to 121. Snow leopards have fallen to between 300 and 400, while previously their number was estimated at between 400 and 500.
Snow leopard network
Update: See also Science Daily (better analysis of story)
121 Breeding Tigers Estimated To Be Found In Nepal
“The first ever overall nation-wide estimate of the tiger population brought a positive ray of hope among conservationists. The figures… show the presence of 121 (100 – 194) breeding tigers in the wild within the four protected areas of Nepal.”
“”Tiger numbers have increased in Chitwan but decreased in Bardia and Shuklaphanta,” said Mr. Anil Manandhar, Country Representative, WWF Nepal. “In spite of the decade long insurgency, encroachment, poaching and illegal trade, the present numbers is a positive sign, but we can’t remain unworried. The declining numbers in western Nepal has posed more challenges, needing a concerted effort to save this charismatic endangered species focusing on anti-poaching and illegal wildlife trade.”
See also: Snow leopard holidays
Asia nature, Nepal nature | Tags: How tigers are in Nepal, Nepal tigers, Numbers of tigers in Nepal, Snow leopard, Snow leopards in Nepal, Tigers in Bardia, Tigers in Chitwan, Tigers in Nepal|