Developing a Monitoring Programme for Mammals in Himalayan Protected Areas: A case study from Khangchendzonga National Park and Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim, India

A comprehensive monitoring programme for mammals in Khangchendzonga National Park and Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim, India, was developed using field techniques like trail monitoring, scan counts, camera trapping, and dung counts between 2008-2012. The study confirmed the presence of 42 mammal species, with camera trapping proving most effective for carnivores and solitary ungulates. To detect a 10% annual decline in snow leopard populations with 70% power, 800 effective camera days per year over seven years are required. The estimated cost for detecting significant population changes in mammals ranges from Rs.3,067,000 (US$51,116) over 10-15 years. Regular monitoring of critical habitats and strict patrolling can mitigate negative impacts of anthropogenic activities such as unsupervised livestock grazing and unsustainable resource extraction.

Sathyakumar, S., Bhattacharya, T., Bashir, T., & Poudyal, K. (2014). Developing a Monitoring Programme for Mammals in Himalayan Protected Areas: A case study from Khangchendzonga National Park and Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim, India. Parks, 20(2), 35–48. https://doi.org/10.2305/iucn.ch.2014.parks-20-2.ss.en