WCN Wildlife Conservation Network | Snow Leopard Conservancy

Dr. Rodney Jackson

With almost thirty years of experience in the field, Dr. Rodney Jackson is the leading expert on snow leopards and their habitat. He received the 1981 Rolex Award for Enterprise for his groundbreaking radio-tracking study of snow leopards in Nepal. He was the first to radio collar a snow leopard in the wild and pioneered the standardization of snow leopard tracking methods.

Snow leopard pelt, Photo: Rodney Jackson

Threats

The strikingly beautiful snow leopard remains one of the world's most mysterious cats. Rarely sighted, it inhabits the high mountains of Central Asia over an expansive twelve-country range. Although snow leopards pose no threat to humans, they are hunted as a result of preying on livestock. They are also endangered due to loss of habitat and poaching for their pelt and bones.

Constructing a predator-proof corral, Photo: SLC India Trust

Solutions

The Snow Leopard Conservancy (SLC) engages local people in a discussion of their needs and ideas on how to live harmoniously with snow leopards. SLC builds upon traditional beliefs and empowers communities to benefit economically by maintaining a balanced ecosystem for the snow leopard. Employment, education and alternative-income projects, such as tourist homestay lodging, are the cornerstone of SLC's success.

Media Features SLC

The June 2008 issue of National Geographic features an article with stunning photos on snow leopard conservation: “Out of the Shadows: The elusive Central Asian snow leopard steps into a risk-filled future.”

Himalayan homestay, Photo: Rodney Jackson

SLC's Himalayan Homestays were chosen by the Guardian newspaper in Great Britain as one of the top ten fair trade holidays that can make a difference to the local community.