Wildlife

Snow Leopard Livestock Predation

Snow leopards preying on livestock in Central Asia face retaliatory killing that threatens the species while livestock owners face economic losses.

Key Facts

Approximately 4,000-6,500 snow leopards remain in the wild
Snow leopards are classified as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List
Livestock depredation by snow leopards causes significant economic losses for herding families
Community-based conservation programs improve outcomes for both snow leopards and herders

Welfare Considerations

Snow leopards killed in retaliation for livestock losses often die from inhumane methods. Livestock attacked by snow leopards also suffer injury and death. Community conservation programs that compensate for livestock losses, improve livestock protection, and provide alternative income reduce both retaliatory killing and the associated animal suffering.

What You Can Do

Support Snow Leopard Trust and similar community conservation organizations
Donate to livestock insurance programs for herding families in snow leopard range
Choose products from snow leopard friendly herding cooperatives
Advocate for increased funding for snow leopard conservation programs