Leh, Oct. 23 -- The snow leopard (Panthera uncia), often known as the "Ghost of the Mountains", is one of the most elusive and magnificent big cats of the world. Inhabiting the high-altitude regions of Central and South Asia, this apex predator plays a vital ecological role in maintaining the balance of fragile mountain ecosystems. However, snow leopards are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, climate change, retaliatory killings, and declining prey populations.

For Ladakh, the snow leopard is not only an emblem of its unique biodiversity but also a keystone species essential to the ecological stability of its cold desert landscape. Its conservation is closely tied to the well-being of local communities, sustainable pastoral practic...