India Launches National Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan

India officially launches its first-ever national Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan (CAP) on the occasion of International Clouded Leopard Day. The CAP is prepared under a joint Government of India-GEF-UNDP initiative alongside the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).

National Clouded Leopard Conservation Action Plan and Clouded Leopard Facts:

Dimension	Key Details
Conservation zones	CAP maps out 14 key conservation zones spanning Northeast India to restore fractured forest patches.
Population survey methods	It mandates advanced population surveys using camera traps, occupancy modelling, genetic analysis, and environmental DNA (eDNA) to build India’s first reliable population estimate.
Monitoring technology	It  equips forest rangers with smart monitoring tech, utilising the M-STrIPES app to track anti-poaching activities and patrol routes.
Habitat management	The CAP integrates adaptive management strategies to safeguard high-altitude habitats.
Human-wildlife conflict	The CAP provides for measures to reduce human-animal conflicts.
Scientific names	Clouded leopard scientific names comprise Neofelis nebulosa (Mainland) and Neofelis diardi (Sunda).
Conservation status	The clouded leopard is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List.
Population estimate	The population estimate is less than 10,000 mature individuals.
Native habitat	It is native to dense forests and high-canopy rainforests across South and Southeast Asia.
Distinctive traits	Distinctive traits comprise exceptionally long canine teeth relative to skull size; specialised ankle joints capable of rotating backward for headfirst tree descents; and a long tail matching body length for balance.
International Clouded Leopard Day	International Clouded Leopard Day is observed annually on August 4.
Objective	The objective provides for raising global awareness for the conservation, unique traits, and protection of the clouded leopard.
Establishment	International Clouded Leopard Day is established in 2018 by the Aspinall Foundation, UK.
Threats	The day highlights threats like deforestation and the illegal wildlife trade.