Incentive and Reward Programs in Snow Leopard Conservation

Abstract

A primary threat to snow leopards is retaliatory killing by people whose livestock are depredated and who subsequently view the cats as an economic threat. The structure, implementation challenges and opportunities, and economic, social, and conservation impacts of three community-based conservation programs are explored in India, Mongolia, Pakistan, and Nepal. These programs aim to generate alternative income or reimburse herders who bear a heavy economic burden while sharing the landscape with snow leopards. The Himalayan Homestay Program initiated by the Snow Leopard Conservancy - India Trust in Ladakh has both increased income and changed attitudes toward snow leopards. In Mongolia, Snow Leopard Enterprises has had a similar impact by adding value to raw livestock products through the sale of handicrafts in return for a conservation commitment. Community-based livestock insurance schemes appear to be one of the most efficient snow leopard conservation programs but require scaling up and robust monitoring.