Camera trap research on snow leopards provides crucial conservation data but requires careful placement to minimize disruption to sensitive behaviors.
Camera traps at scent marking sites may deter leopards from normal territorial maintenance behavior if they are detected or disturbing. Poor trap placement can create unintended stress responses. Well-designed camera trap programs that minimize intrusion while maximizing data collection serve both welfare and conservation objectives. Community-based monitoring programs reduce researcher intrusion while expanding the coverage of data collection.