August 15, 2003
A recent study by TRAFFIC, the World Wildlife Fund, and the International Snow Leopard Trust revealed a sharp decline in the snow leopard (Unica unica) population. Hunting was fingered as the main cause of the population decline. Snow leopards have been targeted for their pelts, for use in traditional medicines, and in retaliation for killing livestock.
Snow leopards live in the mountainous regions of central Asia and the Himalayan region. Current estimates place their numbers between four and seven thousand individuals. The snow leopard, Uncia uncia is the only member in its genus. It has a broad, round head and strong paws. The snow leopard grows to weights of 80 to 170 pounds and is adapted for the cold climates of the mountain habitats in which it lives. In winter, it's coat is white with brown or black spots. In summer, the snow leopard's coat is yellowish with brown or black spots.
Despite local and international laws banning the trade of slain snow leopards, instances of illegal trade has been found in each of the 12 countries where the cats live, with the exception of the country of Bhutan.
A disturbing trend was discovered in Afganistan. Research found that Western military personnel and aid personnel stationed in Afghanistan may be the reason for an increased demand for snow leopard pelts. The United Nations Enviornment Programme made an assessment after military conflict and found that Afghanistan may have as few as 100 to 200 snow leopards left. Because leopard pelts bring up to $1000 in Kabul, it's tempting for people to hunt the endangered cat and sell its hide for a profit.
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