Kathmandu, March 22:

A rally was held in the capital today to raise awareness on conserving snow leopard, an endangered wildlife species.

Students from five schools took part in the rally, along with staffers of WWF Nepal and the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation.

As a part of an awareness-raising campaign to save snow leopards, the students from Ambition Academy, Boudha Secondary English School, Gyanodaya Balbatika Higher Secondary School, Peace Nepal Academy and Nexus International Academy, carrying placards and banners that read messages for the conservation of the wildlife species, rallied in the Tundikhel area. The students were given company by government officers and staffers of various non-government organisations.

On the occasion, director general of the department Shyam Bajimaya urged people to show more commitment to conserve the wildcat species, as they are on the verge of extinction. Conservation officer at WWF Nepal Ghana Shyam Gurung said Nepal is one among the few countries in the world where the snow leopards are still found.

Snow leopard (Uncia uncia) is categorised as an endangered species by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) since 1972 and is protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). While Nepal is a signatory to CITES since 1973, the species is further protected under the country’s National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 2029.

At present, there are an estimated 3,500-7,000 snow leopards in the world. Of this, 350-500 are found in Nepal, according to WWF Nepal. Snow leopards are threatened in Nepal particularly due to habitat loss, lack of prey and conflict with herders.