POKHARA, July 4:Researchers of National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC) have spotted some endangered species at Bhimthang Valley in Thochhe VDC of Manang district.

Paras Bikram Singh, a research official at the NTNC said that Bhimthang Valley was a very important place to those endangered species. "With the proof we have collected, it is confirmed that Bhimthang is home to many endangered animals and birds," said Singh.

With the support of Hariyo Ban Program, the NTNC conducted a study on the species during the whole month of June. Singh said that with the 48 cameras installed around the valley, footages of about 116 types of endangered birds and many other animals had been captured, confirming their presence in the valley.

Snow Leopard, Himalayan Black Bear, Kasturi, Jharal, Himalayan Tahr and Ghoral were some of the endangered animals found at that place. Likewise, Danphe (lophophorus), Munal, Himalayan Kalij, White crested Kalij and Snowcock were also some other animals found at the valley. According to Singh, since Snow Leopard prey on Jharal and Himalayan Tahr, the valley witnesses large number of Snow Leopard.

Moreover, researchers have planned to protect the recently discovered endangered animals.  "The conservation program for the valley will be even more meaningful if it combines with one of the conservation camps around the Bhimthang Valley" said Naresh Subedi, Senior Conservation Officer at NTNC. "We will have to install the conservation program faster to avoid poaching activities in the valley."

NTNC will be taking support from Ministry of Forest and Soil Conservation for the conservation program.

"Bhimthang Valley is located around the trekking route. If shifted to a conservation camp, tourists who would want to learn more about these endangered species will be benefitted." Subedi added. "With the conservation of the valley, there will be dual benefits- the number of poachers will reduce while tourism around the valley prospers."  

Also, while studying the valley, the NTNC team had found several nets used to trap animals along the way that shows the poaching activities have been taking place in the valley. "Since the valley doesn't lie around any conservation camps, poaching becomes easier" Singh informed.

 
• endangered species
 
• manang
 
• national trust for nature conservation