The Kyrgyz Republic's efforts to restore the snow leopard population have been highlighted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) as one of the world's successful examples of nature protection. According to the Ministry of Natural Resources, this success became possible thanks to a comprehensive strengthening of state protection measures and tougher legislation against poaching.
Population growth and measures to protect the predator
According to the ministry's estimates, between 450 and 550 snow leopards now live in the republic's high-altitude ecosystems. This is a significant increase compared with the data recorded in 2000.
Snow leopard population in 2000
International experts note that the positive trend in the country's environment is linked to a tougher legislative framework. Kyrgyzstan provides criminal liability for the illegal shooting of animals listed in the Red Book. In addition, the fine for damage to nature caused by a poacher who kills a snow leopard amounts to 2 million som.
Legislative protection measures
Strengthened protection measures and legislative control have made it possible to achieve a significant increase in the animal's population over the past quarter century.
