Due to the growing population of mountain communities and the increasing use of highland areas by humans, conflicts between people and snow leopards are becoming more frequent. In some cases, these conflicts have resulted in the killing of this strictly protected species. Urgent measures are needed to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and ensure the long-term protection of snow leopards.
Since 2016, 53 attacks on livestock have been recorded, resulting in the loss of 905 animals, 95% of which were goats and sheep. Furthermore, 84% of these attacks occurred in inadequately protected stables. Monitoring has shown that conflicts mainly occur during the autumn and winter months and are directly linked to food availability. For example, when marmots begin hibernating, the likelihood of snow leopard attacks increases significantly. During this period, herders must remain constantly vigilant, as snow leopards are more likely to approach settlements and grazing areas. As a result, livestock often requires round-the-clock supervision on pastures, which places a significant financial and practical burden on herders.
The construction of snow leopard-proof stables, combined with the implementation of a compensation and insurance scheme, is considered the most effective way to reduce human-snow leopard conflict and is therefore the project’s primary objective.
Another important aspect of the project is building strong and trusting relationships with local communities, raising awareness of ANCOT’s work, and providing compensation for livestock losses. In addition, the condition of livestock enclosures in areas of actual or potential conflict will be monitored to identify weaknesses and opportunities for improvement.
During the first month following the project’s launch, seven villages in the Bartang Valley were visited: Gudara, Basid, Barchidiv, Roshorv, Razuj, Darjomch, and Khidjez. This initial outreach helped establish trust with local communities. The ANCOT team also gained a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by residents through direct engagement with community members and assessments of existing livestock enclosures.
Photos © ANCOT
