Ladakh has officially become one of the world’s premier habitats for snow leopards, with a recent study estimating the population at 477. This figure represents nearly 68% of India’s total snow leopard count, making Ladakh one of the regions with the highest known densities of this elusive predator globally.
The extensive survey was carried out by the Department of Wildlife Protection in collaboration with the Wildlife Institute of India and the National Tiger Conservation Authority. Using advanced techniques like camera trapping and habitat modeling, researchers confirmed that snow leopards occupy over 47,500 square kilometers of Ladakh’s rugged, high-altitude terrain.
Among key areas, Hemis National Park recorded the highest density, with approximately 2.07 snow leopards per 100 square kilometers. Notably, around 61% of these majestic animals reside in regions shared with human settlements—a testament to the success of community-driven conservation efforts.
This harmonious coexistence highlights the importance of inclusive strategies that integrate local communities into conservation frameworks. Ladakh’s example sets a powerful precedent for snow leopard preservation, not just in India but across the Himalayan range. With such significant numbers, Ladakh is poised to lead global efforts in protecting this iconic species and its fragile mountain ecosystem.
