In the high-altitude landscapes where snow leopards and human communities share space, conservation presents a unique challenge. Protecting these iconic predators often involves significant economic and social costs for local residents. But what if these challenges could become opportunities?

A nuanced approach that not only offsets economic losses but also fosters collaboration and mutual respect has given rise to community driven initiatives, empowering local residents as stewards of their environment.

Turning Conflict into Collaboration

The Village Livestock Security Program stands as a cornerstone of our conservation efforts. This community-driven initiative compensates families for livestock losses caused by predators, thereby reducing human-wildlife conflict and fostering trust. Under the program, villagers annually insure their livestock by paying a premium set by them. In the event of a wildlife attack, compensation of an amount set by them, is provided through the program. Managed entirely by the village community, this approach empowers them to adapt and refine the program to specific needs and best interests of the village.

The results speak volumes. In the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and the Changthang region of Ladakh, communities have shifted their perspective, no longer viewing snow leopards as threats. In fact, there hasn’t been a single instance of large carnivore persecution in over two decades.

The Corral Reinforcement Program is another vital component of our efforts, adopting a proactive approach by 'predator-proofing' livestock pens. These reinforced corrals, co-funded with the community, protect livestock from predator attacks and significantly reduce surplus killing—where predators kill more livestock than they can consume. This initiative has notably decreased livestock losses to snow leopards and wolves, providing villagers with a renewed sense of security.

In Ladakh, the program adapts to the needs of nomadic Changpa communities by constructing two types of corrals: rectangular summer corrals and tent-shaped winter corrals. The tent-shaped design serves a dual purpose—it not only protects livestock from predator attacks but also allows sufficient wind circulation, which promotes the growth of Pashmina wool, a valuable local resource.

To support livestock health and reduce losses, we constructed a vaccination shed in Changthang capable of accommodating up to 1,000 sheep or goats at a time. This large structure has two doors—one for entry and another for exit—allowing easy control and vaccination of livestock, which is challenging in open plains. During extreme weather conditions, such as snowstorms, the shed also doubles as a shelter for the animals.

Low winter temperatures were identified as a major cause of livestock losses during discussions with herders. To address this, we introduced lamb cribs, which consist of three gradually increasing compartments made of stones, mud, and wood, insulated with boris (sacks) filled with livestock dung. These cribs provide much-needed warmth and protection for young livestock, ensuring better survival rates in harsh winters.

The challenges don’t end with livestock; agriculture has also faced its share of conflicts. Since the 1980s, the rise of cash crops like green peas and apples has brought wildlife such as bharal and ibex closer to fields, causing significant damage in Spiti valley of Himachal Pradesh. Long-term research revealed that crop losses peaked near cliffs during dawn and dusk.
This prompted the launch of Crop Guarding Initiative, which involves employing local guards to protect crops during critical periods. The initiative not only secures agricultural income but also provides additional livelihood opportunities for community members. By minimizing crop losses, it bolsters the economic resilience of these villages and strengthens greater coexistence with wildlife.

The Bigger Picture

These initiatives—rooted in economic incentives, community engagement, and innovative solutions—have not only reduced large carnivore persecution but also fostered a greater tolerance for wildlife like snow leopards and wolves. They stand as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared commitment to conservation, bridging the gap between human needs and wildlife conservation.