As a small but diverse nation, Nepal boasts an incredible number of fauna species. As per available records, Nepal has 181 mammal species, 844 bird species, 100 reptile species, 185 fresh water fish species and 635 butterfly species.
Natural and human issues have caused encroachment of habitat, and rapid decrease in population. Numerous species have become extinct and some are on the verge of it. Various National and International bodies have carried out multiple surveys to triangulate their habitat and population. Amongst the various endangered fauna of Nepal, the major ones are as follows:
1. Snow Leopard
The snow leopard is one of the most reclusive predators in the world. Their remaining population is distributed in the regions of Mustang, Mugu, Dolpo, Taplejung and Humla. Their prime characteristic is their smoky grey fur coat with dark grey spots that aid in camouflage. They weigh an average of 40 kg and can grow up to 2.3m in the wild.
Their population is at a threat due to habitat loss, loss of prey and human conflicts. The leopard's fur, bones and body parts are in demand due to their medicinal use in Asian culture. However, poaching incidences are rare.
They were categorized by The World Conservation Union (IUCN) as an endangered species since 1972. It is also protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). In terms of the national legislature, they are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973.
As per recent figures, there are an estimated 3500-7000 snow leopards in the wild. Of which, 300-4000 are found in the Himalayan belt of Nepal.
2. Red Panda
Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens) is part of the Carnivora Order and Ailuridae Family. In Nepal, their habitat falls under Langtang National park, Sagarmatha National Park, Kanchanjunga Conservation Area and Makalu Barun National Park. In terms of the globe, they are native to Nepal, Sikkim, Myanmar, South China etc.
The IUCN incorporated these vulnerable species in their Red List and Appendix I of CITES. In Nepal, they are protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1973. They are protected due to the rapid decline in population led by heavy habitat loss. Globally their colourful skin is in high demand. Thus, there have been records of poaching and illegal smuggling.
3. Bengal Tiger
The Bengal Tiger is the crown jewel of Chitwan and Bardia National Park. Hundreds and thousands of tourists visit the park every year to get a chance to witness these incredible beasts in their natural habitat. The current global population of these tigers are merely 7% of its old number. Historically, there were nine sub-species 3are already extinct. They were hunted for their skin and body parts.
Today The Bengal Tigerand other sub-species are listed in CITES. It is also featured in IUCN's Red List. As per national law, they are protected by the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 1973. Since the establishment of Chitwan National Park in 1970 AD, numerous anti-poaching measures and strict monitoring have been implemented.
4. Pangolin
When it comes to discussions regarding endangered animals, the Pangolin rarely makes a début. Nepal is home to two species of Pangolin:
A. Indian Pangolin
B. Chinese Pangolin
As per recent investigations, poaching of Pangolin is increasing rapidly. Poachers are also using Nepal as a transit destination due to its lack of regulations to smuggle them into China. Pangolin scales, meat, and body parts are a prized commodity in the Chinese market. Both varieties are protected by IUCN. In Nepal, killing, poaching, transporting, selling or buying Pangolin is punishable with Rs 1 million in fine/ or up to 15 years in jail.
