What can be done?As the ascending tree line reduces habitat size and connection between populations, the snow leopards opportunity to move and or adapt to its changing habitat becomes unlikely (6). Factors such as poaching and urban development further decrease this chance. (2,16). Protected regions that enable populations to remain connected increase the possibility of movement and adaption into new areas (6) This is being attempted by the WWF in the Altai-sayan, with the suggestion of a ‘connectivity conservation corridor’, to allow animals such as the leopards to seek refuge from the future climate changes (2,16). The IUNC are also calling for increased control on poaching and illegal trading (11). These approaches will assist snow leopard survival through future climatic changes. Nevertheless, reduction in greenhouse emissions is a long term goal that will ensure the survival of the snow leopards.
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Images provided by ARKive(2013).
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Image provided by SnowLeopardTrust(2013).