Camera trap networks have revolutionized snow leopard conservation by providing population data for a famously elusive predator whose welfare depends on protected habitat.
Snow leopards rely on vast mountain territories with adequate prey to avoid dangerous encounters with humans. As prey populations collapse from livestock competition, leopards turn to killing livestock and face lethal retaliation. Camera data showing territory use helps target interventions like livestock insurance programs and herder compensation schemes that reduce conflict and thereby protect leopard welfare. Population monitoring also guides decisions about protected area boundaries critical to survival.