Himachal records 83 snow leopards; new species found, Spiti joins UNESCO MAB list

Shimla, Oct 2,

Himachal Pradesh marked the start of the 74th Wildlife Week on Thursday with major announcements for biodiversity conservation. The Status of Snow Leopard in Himachal Pradesh–2025 report, released by PCCF Wildlife Amitabh Gautam, revealed that the state is now home to 83 snow leopards, showing an increase from the 2021 estimate.

Also read:Project estimates 54 Snow Leopards in H.P so far 

The extensive study, conducted by the Himachal Wildlife Wing in collaboration with the Nature Conservation Foundation (NCF), Bengaluru, covered 26,112 sq km of the state’s high-altitude terrain. Gautam said that while the rise in numbers is encouraging, the snow leopard remains under threat from habitat loss, climate change and human activity. “Along with departmental efforts, community participation is crucial to ensure long-term survival of these species,” he stressed.

New species recorded in Himachal

The report also documented, for the first time in Himachal, the presence of the woolly flying squirrel and the Pallas’s cat, expanding the state’s known biodiversity. Wildlife experts said the discovery is significant for ecological studies in the western Himalayas.

Spiti added to UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere Network

Gautam further announced that the Spiti cold desert region has been included in UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) Network, a global recognition of its ecological value. “This is a matter of pride for Himachal and a reminder of our responsibility to safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems,” he said.

Also read:Snow Leopard with Kill Spotted in Suru Valley, Kargil: A Milestone for Wildlife and Eco-Tourism

Wildlife Week activities

Wildlife Week, celebrated nationwide from October 2–8 with the theme Human–Animal Co-existence, will feature painting and essay competitions, debates, photography contests, short treks, and bird-watching events across Himachal. Educational institutions, women’s groups, Panchayati Raj bodies and government departments have been directed to take part.

The event was attended by senior officials including CF Wildlife Preeti Bhandari, DFO Wildlife Shimla Dr. Shah Nawaz Bhatt, DFO Headquarters Anita Bhardwaj, JICA Forestry Project Director Shrestha Nand Sharma, and NCF Program Manager Deepshikha, who presented the snow leopard findings.

With the increase in snow leopard numbers, the discovery of new species, and Spiti’s global recognition, Himachal’s Wildlife Week 2025 has begun with milestones that highlight both progress and the urgent need for conservation.

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Himachalscape bureau

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The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.

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Himachalscape bureau

The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.