Chapter 39 - The snow leopard in Uzbekistan

Abstract

Uzbekistan contains the smallest and westernmost snow leopard population, which remains understudied, fragmented, and in many ways data deficient. The population is split between two mountain ranges, with most individuals inhabiting the Western Pamir-Alay Mountain system, and a smaller fragment in the Western Tien Shan. The population is estimated at 60–80 individuals and has been steadily increasing for all the years for which data are available. The Siberian ibex (Capra sibirica) is the main prey species, and its geographic range coincides with that of the snow leopard. The ibex is widespread, with a total population estimated at over 2000 individuals. Protection is offered by three Strict Reserves (Zapovedniks), two National Parks and one Biosphere reserve, together covering approximately 65% of snow leopard habitat, although only about 7.5% is inside Strict Reserves. Density of snow leopards is likely close to maximum inside the reserves and much lower in neighboring unprotected areas. Disturbance factors include poaching of prey, herding, firewood, and forest product collection and climate change.