Field Guide Mammals of Ladakh

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Field GuideMammals of Ladakh

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Tahir Shawl

Jigmet Takpa

Phuntsog Tashi

Yamini Panchaksharam


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FOREWORD

Ladakh is one of the most wonderful places on earth with unique

biodiversity. I have the privilege of forwarding the field guide on

mammals of Ladakh which is part of a series of bilingual (English

and Ladakhi) field guides developed by WWF-India. It is not justbecause of my involvement in the conservation issues of the state

of Jammu & Kashmir, but I am impressed with the Ladakhi version

of the Field Guide.

As the Field Guide has been specially produced for the local youth,

I hope that the Guide will help in conserving the unique mammal

species of Ladakh. I also hope that the Guide will become a

companion for every nature lover visiting Ladakh.

I commend the efforts of the authors in bringing out this unique

publication.

A K Srivastava, IFS

Chief Wildlife Warden,Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir


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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The field guide is the result of exhaustive work by a large number of

people. There are many to whom we owe a great deal for helping to

produce this book.

We would like to thank Dr. Parikshit Gautam, Director, Freshwaterand Wetlands Programme, WWF-India, for his help in bringing out

this publication.

We also thank Sh. Pankaj Chandan, Project Manager, WWF-India

for his suggestions during various stages of the production of the

Field Guide. Our special thanks to Ms. Nisa Khatoon, Project Officer,

WWF-India, Field Office Leh, for her help.

We wish to thank Sh. Abdul Rouf, Sh.Tsering Angchok and Sh. Lobzang

Khatup-Range Officers, Wildlife division Leh, and other staff members

of Wildlife Division Leh, especially Mrs.Tashi Lanzon, for their help.

We want to thank Ms. Archana Chatterjee, Regional Coordinator

WWF-India and Mr. Kishor Chandra, Admin. Officer, WWF-India, for

their help.

We are grateful to Sh. Konchok Phandey, a renowned LadakhiScholar, for translating the field guide into the Ladakhi version.

Without his help the field guide in the local language would not have

been possible.

We want to acknowledge Dr. Yash Veer Bhatnagar-Scientist at

Nature Conservation Foundation for critically reviewing the draft. His

comments have helped in further improving the field guide.

Our special thanks to Sh. Ravi Singh, Secretary General and CEO,

WWF-India and Dr. Sejal Worah, Programme Director, WWF-India, for

their help and guidance.


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CONTENTS

Foreword 3Acknowledgements 6

Introduction 10

Mammals of Ladakh 12

Order Artiodactyla

Family Bovidae

1. Blue Sheep/ Bharal 12

2. Tibetan Antelope/ Chiru 16

3. Ladakh Urial/ Shapo 20

4. Tibetan Argali/ Nyan 245. Asiatic Ibex/ Skin 28

6. Tibetan Gazelle/ Goa 32

7. Wild Yak/ Dong 34

Order Perissodactyla

Family Equidae

8. Tibetan Wild Ass/ Kiang 38

Order Carnivora

Family Felidae

9. Snow Leopard/ Shan 40

10. Lynx/ Eeh 44

11. Pallass Cat/ Trakshan 46

Family Canidae

12. Tibetan Wolf/ Changu 50

13. Tibetan Wild Dog/ Phara 54

14. Red Fox/ Whatse 58


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Family Ursidae

15. Himalayan Brown Bear/ Den-mo 60

Family Mustelidae

16. Stoat/ Lakimo 64

17. Mountain Weasel/ Lakimo 6818. Stone Marten/ Kogar 70

19. Eurasian Otter/ Chusham 74

Order Rodentia

Family Sciuridae

20. Himalayan Marmot/ Phia 78

21. Long tailed Marmot/ Phia 82

Family Muridae

22. Silver Mountain Vole/ Zabra 86

23. Royles Mountain Vole/ Zabra 88

24. Stoliczkas Mountain Vole/ Zabra 90

Order Lagomorpha

Family Leporidae

25. Cape Hare/ Ribong 92

26. Woolly Hare/ Ribong 96

Family Ochotonidae

27. Plateau Pika/ Zabra 98

28. Ladakh Pika/ Zabra 100

29. Nubra Pika/ Zabra 102

30. Large-eared Pika/ Zabra 104

31. Royles Pika/ Zabra 106

References 108


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INTRODUCTION

India is one of the twelve mega biodiversity rich countries of the world

which together support nearly 60-70 percent of the worlds biodiversity.

Ten biogeographic zones represent the biodiversity of our country. The

countrys 4.77 percent of geographical area is under Protected Area

Network which is one of the most extensive networks of the world and isrepresented by 96 National Parks and about 600 Sanctuaries.

Ladakh, a region in the state of Jammu & Kashmir, comes under the

Biogeographic zone 1A - the Trans Himalayas. This zone covers more

than 92000 Sq. Km. of geographical area of Jammu & Kashmir. Being a

high altitude cold desert region, it experiences harsh climatic conditions

which include extreme low temperature and very low rainfall leading to

low environmental productivity. This cold desert region appears barren

with low number of wild animals per unit surface area. Nevertheless,more than 700 species of plants, predominantly herbs and shrubs, have

been reported from this region. Thirty three species of mammals have

been reported from this region so far. Two species of mammals viz.,

Himalayan weasel and Musk deer have not been reported after 1960

(Otto Pfister, 2004).

The avifauna, most of which is migratory and vary seasonally, is quite

rich representing about 276 species. Within Indias geographical limits,this region is the only area that provides breeding ground to the

Black-necked crane - the state bird of Jammu and Kashmir.

The fauna of eastern Ladakh have the Tibetan Plateau influence while

Himalayan and central Asian species have influence of the central and

western parts of this region. This region harbours the richest wild sheep

and goat community represented by eight species and subspecies, all

of them being listed under different Schedules of the Jammu & Kashmir

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978 (Amended 2002) and Appendices ofCITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild

Fauna and Flora).


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Mammals of Ladakh

Blue Sheep

Common Name : Blue Sheep/ Bharal

Scientific Name : Pseudois nayaur nayaurLocal Name : Napo/ NaSize : Body Length 120-160 cm, Shoulder Height 75-90 cm,

Tail Length 10-20 cmWeight : 55-70 kg

Jaiveer Singh Choudhary

Description: Bharal is placed between sheep and goats as it is not a

true sheep. The coat is of slate-blue colour which becomes red-brown

in summer. The body is sturdy. Tail is short with black tip. Back of legs

and under parts are whitish. The large rounded horns are directed up

and sideward in males while the females have shorter, straighter horns.Females are smaller than the males and lack black throat pattern. The

eyesight, hearing and sense of smell are well developed. Herbs,

shrubs and grasses constitute the food of this animal.


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Habitat and Behavior: The blue sheep stays between the tree line

and snow line (16000 ft). It lives in groups in high altitude pastures,

open hillsides and rocky slopes. The male and female stay in separate

groups outside breeding season. During winter they descend to

lower elevations (12000 ft).

Being intermediate between sheep and goat they graze like sheepand can climb to the high and inaccessible cliffs like goats. The

colour of Bharal matches completely with surrounding boulders and

rocks. The Bharal does not mate with domestic sheep.

Distribution: Bharal is one of the most common ungulates found in

the Trans-Himalaya. Genus Pseudoisis represented by two species.

Within Indian limits only P. nayaur nayauroccurs. The Bharal though

a typically Tibetan animal, has a wide distribution in almost all themajor mountain ranges of China, Nepal, Bhutan and parts of Pakistan.

In India it is distributed patchily in the main Himalayan range but in

Trans-Himalayan region it has wide and continuous distribution.

It is a common resident throughout Ladakh except in its western

region. Bharal has a wide and continuous distribution in Leh district

which includes Changthang region in the east and covers most of

the area upto Zanskar River in the west. Bharal is one of the majorprey species of the Snow leopard and other predators.

For sighting of this animal in Ladakh the best areas are Hemis National

Park, Chumatang-Mahe region, Rupshu, Changthang including

Tsokar, Puga, Tsomoriri and Hanle.


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Tibetan Antelope

Common Name : Tibetan Antelope/ ChiruScientific Name : Pantholops hodgsoniiLocal Name : StzosSize : Body Length 120-150 cm, Shoulder Height 80-95 cm,


Description: Chiru, a small beautiful antelope is known for its fine and

warm wool called shahtoosh - the king of wools. The body coloration is

generally rufousbrown with whitish under parts. A dark brown stripe

runs down the front of each leg in bucks. Males have long slender

horns which are slightly curved forward. The snout is swollen, the

body is covered with dense wool which is shed during summer. The

high altitude adaptation is manifested in the form of inflated snout.

Each nostril in the inflated nose has a sac to assist in breathing rarefied

air at higher altitudes. The animal feeds on herbs and grasses.

Habitat and Behavior: Chiru is a shy and wary animal inhabiting high

altitude prairies and steppes. It lives in large herds which consist of

female, young and sub adults. The males, which normally stay separated,

George B. Schaller


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join these herds during the breeding season. They dig out shallow

depressions with their hooves and rest in these depressions during

mid day. The Chiru graze in the morning and afternoon.

The animal when in danger runs fast and is very difficult to approach.

The rutting takes place during the winter (December-January) and

young are born in May or June. During rutting season adult malesfight each other. The gestation period is about 180 days.

Distribution: The Tibetan Antelope lives at a height of 3660-5500 m,

inhabiting the worlds most climatically hostile region. The Chiru in

India is distributed in northern and north eastern Ladakh. The total

estimated population in Ladakh is between 250-300 animals. Daulat

Beig Oldi (DBO) in the Karakoram range and Changchenmo valley

in Leh are the typical areas of encounter within Indian limits.

Status: Chiru is one of the most threatened animals endemic to Central

Asia. Its population is declining throughout its range. Its wool was

being collected in China after killing the animals, smuggled into India

and transported to Kashmir where it was used in weaving fine quality

shahtoosh shawls (Wright et al. 1997).

The Chiru is placed under Schedule I of the Jammu & Kashmir

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978 and categorized as Vulnerable under

IUCN*1Red List of endangered animals. It is listed under Appendix

I of CITES. About 20000 animals are poached annually throughout

its range and the estimated population is less than 75000 animals

throughout its range.

* International Union for Conservation of Nature.


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Ladakh Urial

Common Name : Ladakh UrialScientific Name : Ovis vigneiLocal Name : Shapo, ShaSize : Body Length 110-150 cm, Shoulder Height 70-90 cm,


Description: Ladakh Urial is

smallest of all the wild sheep. It is

also known as Red sheep. Urial

has three subspecies viz., Afghan,

Punjab and Ladakh Urial. Ladakh

Urial is endemic to Ladakh. The

horns are back curved, out-

turned, well wrinkled and slender.

The tips of the horns, in Ladakh

Urial, point forward. The colour of

the body in adult males is copper

red. Under parts, lower legs, tail

and chin are whitish along with

a blackish lateral line. The adult

male has a dark ruff from throat

to breast. The winter coat is shed

with the onset of summer. Males are heavier and larger while females

are smaller with shorter horns. Males have a black and white saddle

patch.

Habitat and Behavior: The Ladakh Urial is a very wary and agile

animal and referred to as low country sheep. The animal lives in

herds. Males and females mostly stay in separate herds. The animalnormally inhabits steep, grassy mountain slopes between 3000 to

4000 m. In winter the Urial moves to lower slopes. They rest during

mid day and graze in the morning and evening. The males in breeding

season visit several herds.

Joanna Van Gruisen


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E-b-w-G-G-D-b-G-Tm--z-P-q-P-P-mG -hG---w-;m---T---hm-xG--zem-b-P-P-mG -w-G-w-;m-m-h-hG-P-hG-m-mGIh-q-hP- G-G--;m-hP- Q--hP-;-;-;m-h;--hP-mG-q- --h-h-m-mG -D-TG-V-Dm-m-w-G-;m-m-+-m-m--G-q-mG--P-P-mG h-h--z-B--G- G-q-hP-hGm-h--t--wP-z-m-mGw-;m-Uh-Tm-hP-Vm-q-P-P-mG -!;m-VP-Pm-hP--T-fP-Pm-P-P-mG w-;m--mG-q-hP-h;-q-fG--P-P-mG

Gm--hP-uh--hG---w-;m-uP--b-hG--hP-HG-q--Dm-m-hh-I--h--hG-Dm-G-m-mG h-P--E-mP-P-hG-G-mG P-V-z-w-hP--;m-E---mP-P-hG-G-mG h-;m-P-V-z-GP-G-q--kz--D-Tm-f-h--- 3000m- 4000 --hG-G-mG Gm--h---kz-;m--zz--mG Zm-GP-P-P--e-S-h!G-hP-w-h!G-;m---z-hI--mG Mh-t--h---w-;m--z--E-o-G--Gz-z-V-mG


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Status and Distribution: Ladakh Urial has a very restricted distribution.

This subspecies is endemic to Ladakh. Its distribution is along the

major valleys of the rivers Indus and Shyok. As these valleys are

heavily populated this brings this species into direct conflict with

humans. The total estimated population of this species in Ladakh

is about 1500 individuals. Its number is declining drastically due to

disturbance and habitat loss. As per reports it has been exterminated

from several areas and survives only in small isolated populations.

The Urial is best sighted in areas surrounding Fotu La, Nindum and

between Lamayuru, Rizong and Wanla. In Kargil district the animal

is reported from Junkar range and between Chiktan and Jukshu.

The population is showing a declining trend. The animal is listed as

Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals and comes

under Appendix I in the CITES and Schedule I of the Jammu & KashmirWildlife (Protection) Act, 1978.


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Ez-DP-hG---z-;m-Gm--D-TG-G--GbG-hG-G--mG h-G-q--hG-GTG-q-h-h-m-mG h-P--hG--m-P-G-GP-q-Mh-h!-P-q-;m-hP--GG-GP-q-Mh--m-mG h--;m---IP-P-q-h-q-P--;m-hP-fG-Gm-

hG-G-mG -Tm-h-IP-;-zk--hG---- 1500 -h-h-m-mGhG--P-q-h-Dm-q--b-h-IP-;-ZP-P-ZP-P-Vm-hP-m-mGGm--mP-zm-Gm--P-q-m--z-eP-b-m-mG- -hG IP-;-ZP-Pm-G-Gm----G-G-h-Dm-mG w-f--Z-D-hP- Zm-h-hP- G--hP.-P-hP-m--zT-q-YP-;m---z-fP-P-mG h;-H-P-DG-G-mP-P-WP-h;-Mh-m-GTG-zdm-hP-;G--z-;m--h-h-m-mG -z-IP-;-ZP-P-Vm-m-mG h-z----m-mP-P-om-D-hP-q-mP-P-m-mG mG-G--Tm-

P-B

z-z

-I

-

P-

m-m

G


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Tibetan Argali

Common Name : Tibetan Argali/ Great Tibetan SheepScientific Name : Ovis ammon hodgsoniLocal Name : NyanSize : Body Length 130-190 cm, Shoulder Height 90-110 cm,

Tail Length 10 cmWeight : Up to 100 kg (Male)

Tsewang Namgail

Description: Tibetan Argali is the largest of all wild sheep. There are

eight subspecies of the Argali of which two occur in India viz., theNyan and Marco Polo sheep. The Nyan resembles an antelope in

build with long legs and a massive body. The coat is light brown and

darker on the shoulders whereas the rump, throat, chest, belly and

inner sides of legs are white. Males have creamy ruffs on their necks.

The horns in males are massive, wrinkled and never exceed a single

circle. Females have characteristic horns. Winter coat in both the

sexes is paler.

Habitat and Behavior: Argali live in groups which are sexually

separated outside breeding season. They prefer high altitude open

plains and hills between 3660-4575 m. They rarely descend below

4500 m. They feed on herbs, grasses, and sedges. The life span


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GZmu-zbP-P. -z!-m--G-m-G-G-P. ---m- --m-Gm--P. GZm

zP-h- hqP-q-G-q-w-z-fm-m-mGI-zh --Tm-P--mP-m-zh-h!-GZm-q-G-V--m-mG GZm-D-P-P-mP-P--G-zMh-h-h-m-mG h-mP-m-o-GZ-M-G-q-m-mGhq-m-GZm-hP--;-q--G GZm-m-z-e-Gh-G-m-mG @P-G-P-q-hP-G G-q-Vm-q-m-mG t-hG--qG-G-q-hP- WP-q-D--mG-q-G-m-mG hq-hP-b-b-hP-P-hP-Ih-q-hP-G-G-mP-P-;m-h;-q-P-P-mGw-;m-m-WP-q--B--P-hG -T-;m-~-q--Tm-V-TG-m-f!-z--E-z-P-hG -;m---T-Eh-V-Tm-G-P-hG hGm--w--GZ-;-hG-h-B-z-H-hGGm--hP-uh-GZm-;m-E-mP-P-hG-G-mG m-mP-Mh-t--h-h--m---V-mG h-;m--fm-q-fP-G-hP--f-h--- 3660 m- 4575 --hG-G-mG --

4500 --f-h--zz-b-h-q-z---m-fP-P--mG h-;m-m-Ym-q-VP-Pm-hP-tP-hP-h--;m-z-mG h-;m-m--h--zT-m-zT-G--m-mGS-hG-hP-w-hG-;m---z-I-b-Zm-GP-P-P--e-hG-G-mG h-;m-G-kz-+-q-;m--hG-q-fh-h-mG D-hP--m-;m--hG-G--mG Z-b-hG--m-G-FP-P-b-hG-G-mG GZh-G--m-WP-q-f-zAP-b-hG-G-mGu-- 11 hP- 12 ;!m-m!-h--w---q-!m-mG -GZ---G-;m--Mh-t----mP-IG-G-mG Mh-t--h--w-;m-GT!G-hP-GTG-P--zbP-z-m-mG


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is reported to be about ten to thirteen years. They feed early in the

morning and in evening and rest during the day. The animal prefers

dry spots on the stony slopes and avoids damp snow. While sitting

the head is kept erect and the neck is out stretched while sleeping.

Mating begins in November-December. Females attain sexual maturity

at 2 years of age. During rutting season males engage in intense

fights.

Status and Distribution: Nyan has a very limited and patchy distribution in

India. In Ladakh it is distributed mainly in the eastern part of Changthang

region. Most of its habitat falls along the international border with

China. Its population in Ladakh is estimated to be about 200 to 300

animals. The animal can be best sighted in Khemmer catchment

near Gya and Miru, upper Rumbak valley, northern slopes towards

Taklang-La and above Tsokar basin.

Nyan is listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Animals,

under Appendix I in CITES and Schedule I of the Jammu & Kashmir

Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978.


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Ez-DPGZm-m-M-G--Gm--VP-Pm-D-TG-G--m-h-q-m-mG -hG---;!m--xG--P-fP-YP--hG-G-mG h-mP-m-P-V-z-M-mG-G---Mh--hG-G-mG-hG---;m-m-IP-;-200 m-300 -h-h-m-mG M---Z-D-hP--

zG-G-P-q-w-;m-hP-eG-P--P-xG--kz-;m-hP--h;--Hm-xG-;m---;m-fP-fz--m-mGGZm-m----!m-mP-P-om-D-hP-q-mP-P-m-mG mG-G--Tm-P-Bz-z-I-P-m-mG


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Description: The Ibex is closest in appearance to the wild goat. It is a

sturdy animal with sweeping, scimitarshaped horns curved backwards.

The dense and short coat is brownish above with a bluish tinge under

parts. Back of legs are whitish. The tip of the tail is also white. There is a

dorsal stripe from neck to tail in both sexes. Females have thin parallel

horns. Typical darker chin beard is present. In winter a dense under

wool helps it to withstand the cold.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal lives in herds. Females and males

stay in separate groups but come together in breeding season.

They prefer high altitude pastures on rocky slopes and steep open

hill sides. They do not migrate to lower heights in winter and prefer

Asiatic Ibex

Common Name : Asiatic Ibex/ Himalayan Ibex/ Siberian IbexScientific Name : Capra ibex sibiricaLocal Name : Skin, Sakin (male), Danmo (female)Size : Body Length 130-160 cm, Shoulder Height 70-100 cm,


Yash Veer Bhatnagar


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Bmu-zbP-P. --G--zGm-G-G-P. ;z---zG-Gm--P. Bm w- hh- -

zP-h hqP-q-G-q-fm--m---- 100 m-mG -;m-VP-z-m-mGI-zhBm-m-z-e----hP-G-m-mG -z-I-G---T-Mz-xG--E-b-h-Dm-m-hh-I-h-Tm-G-m-m!G G-G-G-B-Dm-m-t-fP-Pm-D-bG-G-G-q-hP-GG-;m--S-P-m-mG G-G-Mz-xG-;m-h;--Tm-hG

Q--G-zP-h;-q-P-hG w--GZ-;--WP-q-m-!Q--G-q-K-G---P-hG hh--;m---T-z--Z-q-B-Dm-P-hG ;-;-;-M--m--P-hG ---;m---m-fG--h-q-hGm--ih--z-hGGm--hP-uh-Bm-;m-E-mP-P-hG-hG w-hP--;m---hG-G-mG m-mP-Mh-t--h--Z-q-m-mG h-P--G-kz---D-f--hP-Hm-Tm--kz-;m--hG-G-mG hGm--GG-G-zz-b-P-P--mG m-mP-D--VG-Dm-m--kz-Hm-Tm-;m--hG-G-mG S-h!G-w-h!G-;m---z--hP-Zm-GP-P-P- -e-hG-G-mGF-hh-Tm-hP-uP--b-hG-Dm-m-q-P--;m-hm--z--h;G-q-m-mG- WG- oP-h-q--m-G-G-q-hP--G-B---Eh-h!-D-hG-;m--V-mGWG--hG-G-e-Dm--hh--;m-hG-G-mG

Ez-DP

hz------m-!----mz-xG-hP-;-hP--hG-hP- z-b-bm-hP- q-;-bm-hP- w-G-m-bm-hP--b-s-h--;--m-G-q--;m--Bm-h-


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steep slopes where snow does not gather. They graze in the morning

and evening and rest during midday. The animal is very shy and

alert and difficult to approach. When alarmed they take refuge in the

precipitous cliffs and ridges above their breeding grounds. Sentries

are usually females.

Status and Distribution: Asiatic Ibex is distributed throughout themountains of Central Asia from Alti to western Himalaya, Kashmir,

Ladakh, Baltistan, Pakistan, Afghanistan to Kumaon in Uttarakhand.

In Ladakh it is a common resident throughout western and partly

central and southern Ladakh between 3500 and 5200 m. It shares a

similar habitat as Blue Sheep at few places where their distribution

ranges overlap. They were heavily hunted in the past and their

population at several places is close to extinction. Apart from hunting,

they are also affected by grazing pressure by herders. The estimatedpopulation in Ladakh is around 6000 animals. The Ibex can be best

sighted in western areas of Hemis National Park or Kanji near

Lamayuru, Changla and Nubra Shyok valleys.


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h-m-mG -hG--mz-xG-P--hP-GP-D-hP--xG---- 3500m-5200 --f--;m--Bm-P-q-P-P-mG Gm--D-TG-G--;m-Gm-z-hP-Z-q-hG-G-mG Sm--m-P-q-;m-m-P-q-zh-hh-;G Gm--D-TG-G-eP---fG-;G !P-q-zh---h-q--q-hh-I---m--DP-h;m--V-mG -hG---z-IP-;---eP-iG--G-h-h-m-mG-- m-m-q-G-G-mz-xG-hP-G-!-Z-I-@m-z-hP-P--hP-mz---GG-G-P-q-;m--Bm-P-q-fP-P-mG


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Tibetan Gazelle

Common Name : Tibetan GazelleScientific Name : Procapra picticaudataLocal Name : GoaSize : Body Length 90-105 cm, Shoulder Height 65 cm,

Tail Length 10 cmWeight : 15 kg

Dipankar Ghose

Description: Very little is known

about this antelope. The animal

is stocky with a barrel-shaped

body, grey in colour, legs are thin

and the tip of the tail is black,

under parts are whitish with a

prominent white caudal disc. Inmales, short, slightly ringed horns

rise up straight and then take a

sudden sharp curve backwards.

This animal is rarely seen drinking

water. The sexes are alike.

Habitat and Behavior: They stay in sexually separated herds

outside breeding season. They prefer high altitude dry grasslands andbarren steppes between 3950 and 5500 m. Males may be found

roaming singly or in smaller groups. They graze in the morning and

afternoon. They are very shy and wary and run very fast upon slightest

suspicion.

Status and Distribution: Tibetan gazelle is distributed in Tibet and

Sikkim. Once fairly common in Changthang region of Ladakh, it has

since been wiped out completely from most of its range. The estimated

population in Ladakh region is between 70-80 animals. The animals

were best recorded from Kalak-Tartar plains south of Hanle valley. It

is recorded as Near Threatened under the IUCN Red List of Threatened

Animals, under Schedule I of the Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife (Protection)

Act, 1978 and under Appendix-I of CITES.


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hG-u-zbP-P- -z-m-G-m-G-G-P- s-;z--qG-b-;-^--Gm--P. hG-

zP-h hqP-q-G-q-m---- 65 G-G-fm-G-mGI-zh- -z-h;m--G--m-M-V--mG -z-G G-!q-~-q---hP-hG-S-P-hP- @P-q-;m-y--hP- Q--G-mG-q-hP- Ih-q-D-;m-h;-q-P-hG w-;m---T-G-Tm-Hm--P-b-m-q----G-m-Mz-xG--=G-E-b-P-hG hG!-z-V-fP-z-fP---ZP-Pm-m-mGw--GZ-;-G-m-mG-Gm--hP-uh-Mh-t- -Gm--h---GbG-w--;m-E---mP-P-hG-G-mG -;m--- 3950 m- 5500 --f--tP-fP-hP--fP-+-q-;m--hG-G-mGw-;m---q- P-m-D-TG--Z-q-I-m-h-q-fP-P-mG S-hG-hP-Zm-GP-w----m-P-P-mG F!-hh-Tm-hP- uP--b-hG--hP-iG--hP-zP-Tm-P-P-mG

Ez-DPhG-z-m-zh-hP--YP-;m--h-h-m-mG h-G-G--z--hG--P-fP-YP--P-q-P-Ph-qm- m-mP-YP-P-q-G-G-h-Dm-P-e-m-mG-hG---z-IP-;-zhm-T-zMh-T-G-h-q-h-m-mG m--m--xG--fP-G-;-G-h-h--fP-Ph-qm -JP-P---Tm-P-Bz-z--Tm-eP-q-Z!m-;-f-h-q- ---m-mP-zm--z-eP-q-WG-h-q-I--m-m


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Wild Yak

Common Name : YakScientific Name : Bos grunniensLocal Name : DongSize : Body Length 300-380 cm, Shoulder Height 200 cm,


Description: The Yak is the largest wild animal of the Himalaya. Itis a massive, powerful, short-legged, blackish-brown animal with

a drooping head and high humped shoulders. Up-curved, widely

separated pointed horns are present in both the sexes. Horns of

females are about half the size that of males. The hairs hang down

nearly to the ground from the shoulders and chest. The tail has a

very large brush of black hair over a foot in thickness. Yaks have

been domesticated across most of their range. Unlike the Wild Yak,

the tamed Yak usually bears patches of white. Due to hybridizationwith domestic cows, Dzos, are smaller than the wild ones.

Habitat and Behavior: The Yak lives in groups, living mostly in sexually

separated herds. Very little is known about this animal in India. It is

Jigmet Takpa


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P.u-zbP-P. ^- GGm-G-G-P. z-G-m-mm-Gm--P. P.

zP-h- hqP-q-G-q-f!-h-m---- 2000I-zhP-m-!----mP-m---Tm-V--G-m-mG P-m-G G-q-Vm-q-G-Tm-hP-@P-G-fP-fP-hG-G-mG-G-zK-b-hG-DmmG-fm-q-Tm-m-hh-I-G-m-mG P-w--GZ-;---T-Hm--P-b-G-z-z-Tm-GG-GG--P-P-mG P--;m-m--T-P-w-P-VP-P-P-mGP-hP-hqP-q-;m-m-h-q-;m----fG-;--P-q-P-P-mG @P-q-D-bG-G-t-mG-q-Q--zP-zP-Vm-q-P-P-mG GG-;m-Gm--P-q--z-b-z-Dm-m-mG z-b-z-Dm-m-GG-;m-P-G-h-q-m-mGT- -m-z-b-z--hP- z-hP-i--m-h;-fG--h-P-mG-;m-VP-P-m-mGGm--hP-uh-P-w-hP-P--;m-E---mP-P-hG-G-mG M-G--h-hh-I-

+--M-ZP-Pm--m!-h-q-m-mG P-m-WG-dm-mP-m--f---hG-Dm-m-hh-I-G-m-mG -z-M-G------fP-eP-IP--D-z-z;z-e-h-Dm-m-Gm--;m--hG-G-mG -h;m-h-q-P--z-G-m-G--I-m--w-D-m-hG-G-mG S-hG-w-hG-;m---z-zP-P-mG V-h--m-D-zz-b-h-Dm-;m-kG-Gm-hG-G-mG h-G-G-q-hP--h--;m--P-e----;m-z-mG h-;m-IP-i-h-m-z-zTh-h-IP--;m-mP-zh-q-m-mG -IP-ih--h--m-h-q---mG

h--h-q-m-Bz---w-D-z-h--;m--V-mG P-hGm-G-G-q-hP-zz-b-P-P-mG -z-F!-hh-Tm-hP-uP--b-hG-Dm-m-mG h-w--;m-hm--z--h;G-q-m-mG


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one of the highest dwelling animals of the world. It is found in the coldest,

most desolate and rugged snow covered terrains of the Indian

Himalaya. Due to scarce vegetation in its habitat the animals roam

permanently to obtain food. They graze in the morning and evening.

They have also been seen to consume snow when water is not available.

During early summer they can be seen in lower areas feeding on

fresh vegetation. They can endure temperatures below -40 0C and

are sensitive to warm temperature. To escape the summer heat they

move up to the snowline and descend with the onset of winter. The

animal is very shy and wary and is difficult to approach.

Status and Distribution: Yak is distributed in Trans-Himalayan ranges

with limits in the plateau of Tibet and part of Kansu province in China.

In Ladakh it has been reported from Changchenmo valley at an

altitude between 4320-6000 m. The estimated population in Ladakhis around 40 to 50 animals. The estimated population throughout its

range is 15000 animals.

The Yak is listed as Vulnerable under IUCN Red List of Threatened

Animals, under Appendix I in CITES and Schedule II in the Jammu &

Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978.


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Ez-DPP-m-----w-xG--YP-zh-hP-M-mG-G-;m -YP--h-h-m-mG-hG--P-Vm--YP--f-h---4320 m-6000 --h-h-m-mG-hG---z-IP-;-z-zT-S-zT--G-h-h-m-mG -z-hG--YP-

P--z-m-IP-;-15000-G-h-h-m-mG W--;------Tm-P-Bz-mP-zm- ---m-m-mP-P--z-eP-q-Zm-;-h-q-f-mP-P-m-mG


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Tibetan Wild Ass

Common Name : Tibetan Wild AssScientific Name : Equus kiang kiangLocal Name : KiangSize : Body Length 210-230 cm, Shoulder Height 140 cm,


Joanna Van Gruisen

Description: Tibetan Wild Ass was

earlier regarded by some as a race

of the Asiatic Wild Ass (Khur). Now it

is recognized as a separate species.

Found in Indian Trans-Himalaya

there are two subspecies of Kiang

viz, Western Kiang (E.k.kiang)

in Ladakh and parts of Spiti(Himachal) and the Southern Kiang

(E.k.polydon) in Sikkim. Kiang has

a massive head with powerful body

supporting a short black-brown erect

mane. It has a narrow mid-dorsal strip without a whitish border. The longish tail

ends in long black hair tuft. The hooves are large as in horses. It is reddish-brown

on the back and white on the belly. The sexes are alike.

Habitat and Behavior: The Kiang occupies high biotopes in Trans-Himalayan

cold desert often near marshes or wetlands between 4000 and 5200 m. It livesin groups of sexually separated herds. The Kiang grazes throughout the day.

On sensing danger the herd will flee very fast. Often a male keeps watch of the

herd from an elevated place and alarms the others by joining the herd.

Status and Distribution: Kiang is a common resident throughout eastern and

northern Ladakh. The animal is best seen in Rupshu and Changthang region,

including Tsomoriri, Hanle, Chumur, Chushul, Tsokar and upper Markha

valley. The estimated number of Kiang in Ladakh is between 1500 and 2000.

Increasing developmental activities has pushed this animal to a few remotevalleys. They are considered as competitor to the livestock of locals. This has

brought this animal in direct conflict with nomadic herders.

Kiang is listed under Appendix II of CITES, under Schedule I of the Jammu &

Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978 and as Vulnerable under IUCN Red List

of Threatened Animals.


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AP.u-zbP-P. -z-m-!-^-m-G-G-P. -;-;P-;P.-Gm--P. AP.

zP-h hqP-q-G-q-m--- 140I-zh Sm--m-zh-q-AP-z----G-AP-P-G-m-m!G-

-h-qm- hG---z-D-P-P-G---G-m-mG- --mG M-G------w-xG--h-q-AP-;m--G-GZ-hG- --mG -hG-hP-u-b!-DG-TG--h-q-mz-xG--AP-hP--YP--h-q--xG--AP-AP-P-G G-q-h-Tm-hP-G-Vm-q-h-h-m-mG t-fP-Pm-Tm-m- -z-G-mG-P-b-P-hG -z-h;-q---h-q-K-G----y--P-hGQ--P-q-t-mG-q-w!m-wm-G-hP-Z-q--hG -G-;m-d-G--P-Tm-P-hG -z-Mz-xG-q-h-G-hP-Ih-q-h;-q-P-hG w--GZ-;-G-P-hGGm--hP-uh-AP-;m-m-----w-xG-IP----+-hP-h--h--;m---- 4000

m- 5200 --f--;m--hG-G-mG -;m-w----E-mP-P-hG-G-mGAP-;m-m-Z--GP-q---m-hG-G-mG WG-oP-h-q--m-HG-q---mGAP-w-G-Gm--fm-q-G-G-;-hG-e-WG-oP-h-h-ze-z-m-mG fP-m-P--y-P-e---mGEz-DP-hG--P-xG-hP--xG-;m--AP-;m-hG-G-mG P-fP-YP--z-

-hP-----hP-m--hP-V--hP-V--hP--h;-hP--D-f--;m--AP-P-P-mG -hG--AP-P-IP-;- 1500 m-2000 -h-h-m-mG-M---;m-m--b-AP-;m-fG-P-fG-P-P--zTG-G-mG h-P---Gm--z-BP-h-q-hh-I-;m-m---zTG-Dm-z-q-m-mG h-w-P-q-;m-m-AP-;m--fh-q-P---mG--Tm-P-Bz-q-fG-m-AP-;m-eP-q-WG--b-m-mG


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Snow Leopard

Common Name : Snow LeopardScientific Name : Uncia unciaLocal Name : ShanSize : Body Length 100-110 cm, Shoulder Height 63 cm,


Martin Harvey

Description: Smaller in size than a common leopard, the Snow Leopard

is one of the most beautiful cats of the world. Its fur is very luxuriant,soft and pearl grey. It is the king of snow capped mountains and

is adapted to survive in some of the harshest and most difficult

environmental conditions. The head, nape and lower parts of limbs

have dark-grey spots. Body and tail is covered with pale rosettes.

Under parts are white and unmarked. The thick, furry tail is almost

1/3 of the body length and is wrapped around the body to keep it

warm. The sexes are alike.

Habitat and Behavior: The Snow Leopard is nocturnal and very

elusive. They are found singly, inhabiting the most inaccessible

terrain of rugged mountains, preferably steep terrain broken by


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GTmu-zbP-P. o--q^m-G-G-P. m--m---Gm--P. GTm

zP-h hqP-q-G-q-m---- 63 -m-mGUh-m ;-- 35 m- 50--m-mGI-zh GT!m-m-WG-dm-m-z--P--P-zh--m-mG h-z!-G G-G-P-VP-P-G-m-mG -z-qG-q--m-Tm-m-mG W-q-hP--bG-hG-m-mG-z-D-VG-b-h-q--M-q-m-mG -z-Gm-G-IP--mP-P-hG--G-

V-Dm-m-mG G-hP-WP-q-hP-m-G-G-GG-;m--mG-B-fG-P-P-mGG G-q-hP-Q--;m---z--bG-G-B-z--h-h-m-mG Ih-q-D-;m-h;-q-hP--h-Dm-m-mG t-Tm-m-Q--z---G G-q--V-mP-m-GTG-G-!h-m-mG h-z-G G-q-ih---q-w-G G-q-z-b-z--mGw--GZ-;-G-m-mG -z-Uh---;-- 35-50 -m-mGGm--hP-uh-GTm-m-m--I--hP-G-+-D-q-m-mG GTm-;m-G-P-hzm-q-mP-P-GTG-q-hG-G-mG -z----hP--fP--hG-q-P--;m--fP-z-h;G-q-m-mG -;m--fP--m-HG-q--fP--V-Zm-Dm-m-q-P- -Gm---;m-m--z--i-B-z- -hGWG--m-G-;m-hP-P-;m-G-Tm-h-b-m-mG w-;m-Gm--GTG-G-P-V-hG-q-P- GT!m-hP-GTm-BG-;m-m-P-P!----zTG-G-mG-z-D-P-P!-P-Uh--kz-P-P-h-q--Tm-Vm-q-;m-Gh-Zm-q-!m-mGGTm-m-Gh-Dm-m-I-m-P--q-Gm-q-hP-Bm-m-mG -z-Gh-Dm-m--Tm-VP-Pm-m-I--w-hP-z--hP--zP-hP-Gm-G-VG-VP-Pm-hP---;m-mP-Gh-h-mG --Tm-P-q-G-h-q-P-+z---


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cliffs, ridges and gullies. Due to its camouflage and secretive habits

it is very difficult to spot. Due to its ability to disappear in front of the

eyes of the observer it is also called grey ghost by locals. Due to

well developed hind limbs and chest muscles it can jump up to 6

meters. The male are territorial and mark their territories with urine,

feces and scraps. It is able to kill prey three times its weight. The two

most common preys are Blue Sheep and Asiatic Ibex. Small prey

includes marmot, pika, hares, other small rodents and game birds.

Due to scarcity of natural prey they also kill livestock. It feeds on the

carcass over a period of three to four days. In February and March,

during its breeding season, it is also reported to feed on a shrub,

Myricaria germanica.

Status and Distribution:The Snow Leopard is found in the mountainous

region of Central Asia and has been recorded from parts of Russia,Mongolia, China, Nepal, Tibet, Bhutan, Pakistan, India, Afghanistan

and north-east range over the Pamir, Tienshan and Altai mountains.

In India, it is found throughout the alpine zone of the main Himalayan

range. It is reported from Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh,

Uttarakhand, Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. It is encountered

throughout Ladakh, mostly in the south and central regions

between 3000 and 5000 m. In Ladakh it can be best sighted within

Hemis National Park and Zanskar valley. Its estimated populationthroughout Ladakh region is around 250-350 animals. Throughout

its entire range the estimated population of Snow Leopard is 7000

individuals.

It is listed as Endangered in the IUCN Red List of Threatened

Animals, under Appendix I in CITES and under Schedule I in the

Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978.


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z-z-hh-IP-Gh-h-mG G-G-z---Dm-m---b-hG-G-mGu--GZ-q-G-q-;m-m-h---z-y-G!-Bh-w--h-m-q-P. -hP--z-z-G--b-hG-G-mG

Ez-DPGTm-m----hz-hP--hP-G--hP-M-mG-hP-z-z-hP-zh-hP-G--hP-q-;-bm-hP-M-G-hP-w-G-m-bm-hP-q---P--- m-m-hP- ----Mh-;m--h-h-m-mGM-G---z------Mh-h--qm-YP-;m--P-P-mG W--;-hP- --T-hP- b-b-m-T-hP- -YP-hP- --m-T-s-h-xG-;m--h-h-m-mG -hG--GP-D-hP--xG--f-h--- 3000 m- 5000f--;m--P-q-P-P-mG-hG---z-P-V-z-!--m-m-q-G-hP- P-h;-;m--fP-P-mG-hG---z-IP-;--- 250 m- 350 -h-h-m-mG -z-IP-;-xG-P---z-m---eP-zhm- 7000 -G-h-h-m-mG---mm-f-mP-zm--m-GTm-;m-eP-q-Zm-;-mP-P-m-mG


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Lynx

Common Name : Lynx, Eurasian Lynx, Himalayan LynxScientific Name : Lynx isabellina/ Felis lynx/ Lynx lynxLocal Name : EehSize : Body Length 85-90 cm, Shoulder Height 60 cm,


Fritz Plking / WWF

Description: Lynx has a stocky body and

strong limbs. The body colour is reddish-grey

with spots over the upper limbs. Hind legs are

longer than the fore legs. The most distinctive

character is long tufts of hairs on the tips of the

erect and triangular-shaped ears. It has a short

and black-tipped tail. The beard-like ruff around

the face is prominent.

It is considered as one of the rare cat species

in Ladakh.

Habitat and Behavior: Lynx inhabits areas at

an altitude of 4250 and 4575 m in the Himalaya

and descends up to 1525 m in winter. Dense

vegetation of Caragana, Hippophae and

willow are its preferred habitat. It is an excellentclimber. Though known as a loner, groups of up

to four can be seen occasionally. The Lynx is very secretive and elusive. It is

diurnal in habit but more active during dusk and dawn. It hunts marmots, hare,

young ones of Bharal and even domestic sheep and goat.

Status and Distribution: The Lynx is distributed from Europe, to the east of

Asia including China, North America, with an exceptional concentration along

a strip across Russia from Ural mountains to the Pacific. It is also recorded

from Tibet, Gilgit, Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh. In Ladakh it is reported from

Hunder and Panamik area. It has also been observed near Gya-Miru area of

Leh. The Lynx population has declined due to habitat loss and hunting for its

fur which is still in demand in the fashion market. In western and Central

Europe it has become extinct. The Lynx is listed under Appendix II of CITES,

and Schedule I of Jammu & Kashmir Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1978. According

to a report, there may be 50 to 70 individuals of Lynx in Ladakh region.


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Gu-zbP-P. --m-Pm-G-G-P. P---z!--m-Gm--P. G

zP-h hqP-q-G-q-m---- 60 Q---m---- 18-23 G-hP-G G-q-P--m---- 15-9 -G-m-mGI-zh G--G G-q-fG--hP-m-G-;m-G-Tm-m-mG G G-q-hG-m-h-B-hP-m-G-eG--;m--F-fG--P-P-mG hm-m-G-G-P-Mz-z-G-G-;m-P-q-h-h-m-mG P----dG-G-q-m n-VG-G-G-;-t-P-b-P-P-mG -z-Q--fP-Pm-mG-q-G-h-h-m-mGGhP-P-;-M--G--t-G-q-h-h-m-mG -z--hG--z--G---Tm-h;m--G-z-mGGm--hP-uh-G-m-----f-h--- 4250 m- 4565 --hG-G-mG hGm---- 1525 --h--;m--P-P-mG ;--G-m-hP--h;-hP-UP--P-q-h--;m--z-hG--zh--mmG -z-Hm--G----iG-q-P-P-mG

GTG-q-hG-Dm-m-mP-z--Z-q-h-q-fP-P-mG G-m-Gm--hzm-q-;m--hG-G-mG -z-Z--h--P-P-mG m-mP-P-V-z--z-hP-Gm-P--I--mG -z-w-hP- -zP-hP- --VP-Pm-hP-IP-q-z-z--G-P-Gh-h-mGEz-DP G-m--z-m-----xG-hP-P-xG-!---;-hP-M-mG-hP-h-mP-mP------Mh-m-q--wG-M---G-q-P-P-P-P-mG-z-zh-m-G-Gh-G-q---T-hP--hG-;m--h-h-m-mG -hG---z-m-h-hP-q-m-G-;m--h-;G M---;m-P-P-hG-Gm--P-q-h-Dm-hP-qG-q-w-Gh-Dm-q--b--z-IP-;-ZP-P-V-hG- -hGV-G---F--;m---z-qG-q-hG-k-h-b-!m-mG mz-xG-hP----hz-;m---z-h-Dm-P-e-m-mG G-m----!--- f-GZ-q-mP--m!-mG --Tm-P-Bz-z!-I-m-mG -hG--G-IP-;- 50 m- 70-G-hG- -hG


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Pallass Cat

Common Name : Pallass CatScientific Name : Otocolobus manul/ Felis manulLocal Name : TrakshanSize : Body Length 50-60 cm, Shoulder Height 30 cm,


Description: The Pallass Cat resembles a small domestic cat in size.

It has a broad head, low forehead, low-set widely parted ears and

long thick tail with black tip. Its coat gives frosted appearance due

to white tips of its hair. The body is compact with low limbs. The

colour of the body is silver grey. The limbs and lower back have

black bands. The fur on its under parts and tail is comparatively

longer than that on the rest of the body. The cat feeds on small mammals

like pika and rodents. It also feeds occasionally on birds. The male

is slightly heavier than female. The cat attains sexual maturity after

one year.

Habitat and Behavior: Its habitat is mainly located in the vicinity of

pika habitat in arid flat grasslands. The cat is seen solitarily. Very littleis know about its ecology. The cat prefers jagged and rocky terrain at

high altitude. The cat is generally active from dusk to dawn with rare

BNHS


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G-GTmu-zbP-P. q--;m-G-G-P. -!-;--z m-Gm--P. G-GTm

zP-h m---- 40 m- 50Uh- ;-- 2 m-5I-zh-z--m-IP-q-z-z-z--VP-Pm-G-G-m-mG -z-G-Vm-q-hP-hs-z-h--hP-n-VG-E-E-Q--fG--P-q---mG-q-P-P-mG--z-t-G-;m-h;-q-h-q-P-GP-VG-Dm-G-fP-P-mG G-G-fP-

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Gm--hP-uh-

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sightings during day. For hiding and resting it uses rock crevices,

small caves and burrows of fox and marmots. Due to its habit of

moving low on the ground and its elusive nature, its sighting is very

difficult. The gestation period is 66 to 74 days. The cat breeds once

in a year delivering 3 to 6 kittens during April-May. It makes a hissing

snarl when aroused.

Status and Distribution: Pallass Cat, in India, is found only in eastern

Ladakh at an elevation between 3000 to 4800 m. The Pallass Cat

is represented by three races and is distributed throughout Tibet,

France, and Pakistan. This cat was hunted extensively for its fur. This

cat has been placed under Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection)

Act, 1972 and Appendex II of CITES.

The Pallass Cat in Ladakh is best seen in Rupshu/ Changthangarea. The subspecies found in Ladakh is Otocolobus manul

nigripectus.


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Ez-DPM-G---z--m--hG--xG--f-h--- 3000 m- 4800 --Gm-;m---GbG-h-q-m-mG -z--G-Mh-o-G-m-mG h-;m-zh-hP-w-m-hP- q-;-bm-;m--P-P-mG -z--z-qG-q-w!-Gh-h-mG

-z--z--z-JP-P--Tm-P-Bz-hG-q-I--z-b-m-mG -hG---z--z-P-fP-z--fP-P-mG -hG--h-G---;--z-m!-mG--q!G--h-h-m-mG


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Tibetan Wolf

Common Name : Wolf, Tibetan Wolf, Himalayan WolfScientific Name : Canis lupus chankuLocal Name : ChanguSize : Body Length 95-140 cm, Shoulder Height 80 cm,


Description: There are two sub species of wolf in India. The one

found in Ladakh or Trans-Himalaya is Tibetan Wolf (Canis lupus

chanku). Its fur colour varies from sandy-brown to grey-brown, dark

grey or black. Under parts are buff in colour. The black-tipped tail is

less than half the body length. The winter coat is extremely thick and

shaggy. The wolf has strong body, thin legs and V-shaped head.

Habitat and Behavior: The wolf prefers bare and open areas. Caves,

crevices in rocks, and burrows in sand are used as shelter. Theydescend down to valleys in winter and ascend to the snowline in

summer, migrating with the game. The animal is usually seen singly

but some time encountered in packs. The wolf is nocturnal but also

active during day. The animal preys on pika, hare, rodents and birds.

Maya Ramaswamy


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uP-;u-zbP-P. -z-bm-!-wm-G-G-P. ;-m--q-TP-;-Gm--P. uP-;

zP-h- hqP-q-G-q-m---- 80 GG-q-P-h-m---- 94 m-140Uh- ;-- 18 27I-zh-M-G--uP-;-G-GZ-h-;G GTG-q-----w-xG--hG--h-h-m-mG-h-z-zh-h-uP-;-;-m--q-uP-;-mm-mG-t-hG-o-G-B-G-m-mG-G-G-

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They also prey on cattle when sufficient wild prey is not available or

when they are near human settlements. The hierarchy is maintained

by the pack. The animals move over a large territory and the territory

is marked by the pack by urine and feces at prominent spots. The

whole pack feeds together on the prey. The animal is very shy and

secretive and runs away in human presence.

Status and Distribution: The wolf in Ladakh is mainly distributed in eastern

and northern region between 3000 and 5000 m. In Trans-Himalayan

region wolf is considered to make maximum killing of livestock amongst

all predators. This has led to human-wolf conflict and is considered as

a big menace. Killing and trapping of wolf takes place by locals in retaliation.

The estimated population in Ladakh region is 300-350 animals. It is

best encountered in Rupshu and Changthang plains, to some extent in

Markha, Upper Suru and Zanskar. The wolf is listed under Appendix Iin CITES and under Schedule I in Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.


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Tibetan Wild Dog

Common Name : Wild dog, DholeScientific Name : Cuon alpinusLocal Name : PharaSize : Body Length 90-100 cm, Shoulder Height 55 cm,


Description: The Wild dog appears in shape like a domestic dog.

The tail is long and bushy, muzzle is shorter and the head is round.

The ears are more rounded at the tips. It differs from domestic dogs,

wolves and jackals in having six molar teeth in the lower jaw whereas

the others have seven. It also has 12 to 14 teats as compared to 10

in canis. The sides of the neck and throat are covered by a distinct

mane. The colour of the coat is sandy-brown with buff under wool.

The under parts are paler. The sexes look alike.

Habitat and Behavior: The Dhole is rare and very little is known about

this animal. They are social animals and live in family packs which

consist of 2 to 4 individuals. They prefer to stay away from human

Joanna Van Gruisen


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w-u-zbP-P- ^-Gm-G-G-P- ;m--q-m--Gm--P- w--

zP- hqP-q-G-q-m----55--fm-hP- G G-q-P-P-m----90m-100--Uh--;--15m-20-h-h-m-mG-I-zh w-z-m-E-mP-G-m-mG Q--P-q-t-Tm-m-D-fP-Pm-hP-G-lz-lz-m-mG n-VG-G-G-xG-q-G-G-m-mG E-hP- uP-;-hP-

E-uP-hP-zT-q--@P--GG--zhm-m-mG m-mP--z-iG--m!-h-;G-z--zT-GZ-m-zT-z-G-q-P-P-mG ;-m-hP-zem-m-zT-m-mG WP-q-hP-+-;m---z-h-h-m-mG -m-P-ZP-hP-zT-q-t-hG-m---G-q-hG-m-mG Ih-q-xG-q-B-G-m-mG w--GZ-;-G-m-mG-Gm--hP-uh----Tm-q-+----h;m--hP-M--ZP-Pm-G-m-mG h-;m--e-hG-

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habitations. It is mainly a forest animal, found in Himalaya/ Trans-

Himalaya preferring mountain habitat with gentle slopes. In Ladakh

region they inhabit open country. The habit of living in pack helps

them to hunt larger animals. The animal is diurnal i.e. active during

the day time. It does not burrow in dens but lives in crevices, among

rocks or ravines. After knocking down the prey the whole pack feeds

together quickly. An individual Dhole can consume up to 4 kg of

meat in one hour. The pack marks territory with feces. The Dhole

preys on Markhor, wild sheep, pika, rodents and hare.

Status and Distribution: In Ladakh, the Dhole is found throughout

eastern and northern region upto 4000 m or higher, determined

by the presence of prey. The Dhole is distributed from Central and

East Asia to South and Southeast Asia. It is represented by about

10 races throughout its range. The animal is on a decline due to itspersecution and depletion of prey. In Ladakh the animal is best seen

in Rupshu,Changthang area, eastern part of Hemis National Park

and eastern Zanskar.

The animal is listed as Vulnerable in IUCN Red List of Threatened

Animals, under Appendix-I of CITES and Schedule II in Indian Wildlife

(Protection) Act, 1972.


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Red Fox

Common Name : Red Fox or Hill Fox, Tibetan FoxScientific Name : Vulpes vulpesLocal Name : WhatseSize : Body Length 50-70 cm, Shoulder Height 35 cm,

Tail Length 40-50 cmWeight : up to 5 kg

Description: The name Red

Fox is after its coat which is

reddish in colour. The under

parts are white. The body is

covered with long and silky fur

with dense under wool. The tip

of the tail is white. Below eacheye there is a dark spot. The

limbs are slender. The pointed

ears on their upper parts are

black. The sexes look alike.

Habitat and Behavior: The Red Fox is not a social animal. It is found

singly or seen in monogamous pairs. It inhabits sandy wastes, riverbeds

and sand dunes in semi-arid regions. The animal is active by night. However,

it can also be seen during dusk and dawn. It rests in crevices andburrows during the day time. Often considered as cunning, the fox is

a very shy and wary animal. The animal feeds on birds, rodents, marmots

and mouse-hares. The diet also includes berries.

Status and Distribution: Considered as most widespread, the Red Fox is

a common animal throughout Ladakh. It is reported from valley bottoms up

to 5000 m. It is distributed throughout Europe, Asia and Northern Africa.

The animal was introduced into North America and Australia. Within Indian

limits the Red Fox is found in Ladakh, Kashmir, and up to Sikkim in the

Himalaya. The animal throughout its range is hunted for its luxurious coat.

Its population is declining. In Ladakh the Red Fox is best encountered

in Suru, Markha, Nubra, Zanskar Indus valley, and high altitude slopes

of Changthang and Rupshu region. The subspecies found in Ladakh is

V.v. montana.

Mohd. Abbas


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Himalayan Brown Bear

Common Name : Himalayan Brown BearScientific Name : Ursus arctos isabellinusLocal Name : DenmoSize : Body Length 180-245 cm, Shoulder Height 100 cm,

Tail Length 10 cmWeight : Over 200 kg (Male)

Description: There are eight species of bears in the world represented

by about 58 subspecies. Four species of bears have been reported

from India. The Himalayan Brown Bear (U.a. isabellinus) is a

subspecies of Brown Bear (U.arctos). The Himalayan Brown Bear

has reddish brown coat. The colour of the coat varies from individual

to individual and place to place. It is considered as one of biggest

carnivore. The animal has a large head with small eyes, chest makings

are mostly absent. The animal is less arboreal. It has heavy body

and stocky limbs and strong non-retractable flat claws.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal lives singly or in small groups

consisting mainly of female and cubs. The animal prefers bare open

areas above tree line. The animal is active both during night and

Mohd. Abbas


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day but prefers to rest during midday hours. It is territorial and

its territory varies depending upon the availability of food. The

territory of male may extend up to 100 sq.Km. However, the territory

of female is smaller. It lives in caves and digs up dens and goes

in for hibernation during winter (November to May). Before going

in for hibernation the animal stores large amount of fat by eating

voraciously. The animal has been classified as a carnivore but its

feeding habits are omnivorous which vary with season. In summer it

feeds on fresh sprouting grass, roots, bulbs, insects, rodents like pikas

and also scavenges on carcasses and may also hunt livestock. In

autumn or late summer the animal descends to valleys and feeds on

buckwheat, fruits and berries. Mating takes place in early summer

(May-June).

Status and Distribution: The Himalayan Brown Bear has been reportedfrom south and western Ladakh. In summer the animal ascends to

5500 m up to snow line and descends down to lower areas in autumn.

The animal is distributed in northern temperate zone of North America,

Europe and Asia where its southern limit is the Himalaya. The animal

is on a decline due to its persecution for medicinal value. The

estimated population of the Himalayan Brown Bear in Ladakh is around

100 animals. In Ladakh the animal is best sighted in upper Suru, Zanskar

and Changchu valley. Reports of its presence to some extent have alsobeen received from lower Markha valley.

The animal is listed under Appendex I by CITES and under Schedule I

of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.


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Stoat

Common Name : Stoat/ Himalayan StoatScientific Name : Mustela ermineaLocal Name : LakimoSize : Body Length 17-33 cm, Shoulder Height 7 cm,

Tail Length 4-12 cmWeight : 250-300 g

Description: Stoat is a very agile animal. The head is flattened and

triangular in shape. The body is lean and muscular with slender

limbs. The tail is slim, small and black tipped. Whiskers are long.

In summer the colour of the coat is reddish-brown. The under parts,

inner legs and paws are whiter. The colour of the coat, except for the

black tail tip, turns white in winter. The animal hunts vole and mice

killing them by neck bite. It also feeds on pika, young hare, birds,

eggs and insects. The male is double the size of female. The life

span of the stoat is 2 to 7 years. Male attain sexual maturity at one

year while female at 3 to 4 months.

Habitat and Behavior: The stoat prefers boulder-strewn soft slope,

semi-desert areas and river banks, rock-strewn plains near lakes inhigh altitudes. The animal is a good swimmer and good climber also.

It also stands erect on its hind limbs. It marks its territory with scent,

to keep the intruders away. It is nocturnal but is also seen during day.

BNHS


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When sensing danger it secretes an awful smelling secretion from

glands located at the base of the tail.

Status and Distribution: The animal is represented by about 36

races. It is found in Ladakh from valley bottoms up to 4600 m. The

animal is best sighted in Suru and Zanskar valleys and Markha valley

in Hemis National Park. Outside Ladakh the species is distributedthroughout North Africa, excluding Mediterranean region, and Europe

eastwards to the Himalayan region. It is also found in North America

and was introduced in New Zealand.

The animal is hunted for its fur and is listed under Schedule I of

the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The subspecies found in

Ladakh is M.e.whiteheadi.


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b-m-mG -z-G---G--hG--h-Dm-q-G-h;-q-G-h-;G-


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Mountain Weasel

Common Name : Mountain weaselScientific Name : Mustela altaicaLocal Name : LakimoSize : Body Length 22-29 cm, Shoulder Height 8 cm,

Tail Length 9-15 cmWeight : 220-350 g

BNHS

Description: The body

of this weasel is slender

and long. The limbs are

slender and short. The

tail is about half of body

length. Head is triangular

in shape and the whiskers

are long. The colour of the coat is chocolate-brown, the under parts and

inner legs are whitish. Its tail is without black tip. The colour of fur in the

winter turns paler. It feeds on mice, vole, young hare, pikas and birds.

The male is heavier than female. Life span is about 7 years.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal is seen solitarily or in family parties

near the den. Its habitat is valley floors, meadows, fields, river banks and

boulder-strewn soft slopes. It is a good climber and stands erect on hind

limbs. The intruders are kept away by marking the territory with scentmarkings. It has good eye sight and well developed smell and hearing

capacities. It is usually active during dusk and dawn though sometime

also seen active during day. It discharges a secretion of awful smell when

alarmed.

Status and Distribution: In Ladakh the animal is found from valley bottoms

up to 5100 m or sometimes even higher. In Ladakh the animal is encountered

in Hemis National Park, Shey, Thikse, Zanskar valley, Tsokar basin and

Hanle.

The species is represented by four races from Central to East Asia and

South to the upper Himalayan slopes. The subspecies described here is

M. a. temon. The animal is hunted for fur.

Not much is known about its status.


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Stone Marten

Common Name : Stone Marten/ Beech Marten/ House MartenScientific Name : Martes foina/ Mustela foinaLocal Name : KogarSize : Body Length 30-50 cm, Shoulder Height 15 cm,

Tail Length 18-25 cmWeight : 2 kg (Male)

Description: Stone Marten is very agile. It is slightly bigger than a

large squirrel. The body is graceful and slender. The limbs are

moderately long. The tail is about half the size of body. Claws are

semi-retractile, tail is long and bushy. It is lighter in colour than other

martens. The body colour varies from chocolate to tawny brown.

Throat is white to pale yellow. The legs and tail are darker than the

body. It generally feeds on rodents, reptiles and birds. It is also

reported to consume eggs, fruits, honey, nuts and carrion. Male is

heavier than female and is double the size of female.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal is seen singly. However, during

mating season they can be seen in pairs. It is seen on boulder-strewn

hill sides, rocky mountain slopes and near human settlement and

orchards. It is active by day as well as night time. It leaps amongboulders or moves with great speed in trees. The prey is attacked

and killed with a neck bite. Those living around mountain villages

raid poultry yards and do much damage. The animal is very shy and

BNHS


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zP-h hqP-q-G-q-m----30m-50 fm--m----15Uh--;--GZI-zh;-G-HG-q-I-Dm-m-mG -z-G---P--qG-V-m-mG G G-q-zh----m-mG m-G-;m--qG-P-q-m-mG Q--z---G G-

q-wh--G-m-mG k--;m-P-ZP-mP-P--zk-b-E---Q--P-q-hP-t-Tm-m-mG -z--E--Gm--;m-m-P-B-z-G-m-mGG G-q-hG-q-D-q-m--G-G-q-o-G-m-mG +-D--h;-q-m--B-hG-P-P-mG G G-q-P-@P-q-hP- Q--;m-mG-q-m-mG-z-P-V-z--z-G-hP- P-q--G-hP- -q-;m-Gh-h--z-m-mG-z-!F-hP- P-bG-hP- P--hP- @P--G-hP- --q-;m-mP-z-mG -P-w-;m-Z-kz-Vm-q-hP- Um-bP-m-mG-

Gm--hP-uh--z-D-P-GTG-q-fP-P-mG m-mP-w---q-h--GZ--fP-P-mG -z-wP-Gz-Tm-m-xG-;m-hP- G-Tm-m--kz-;m-hP- -h---;m-hP- P-bG-Tm-m-UP-kP-h--;m--fP-P-mG -z-Z--h-hP- m-P-I--mG -z-wP-Gz-;m-m-mP-P-VP--mGP-m-UP-Gz-;m--HG-q-I--mG Gh--fz-m-WP-q--zbz-e-Gh-h-mG --hG-Dm-;m-m-z-z--w---;m--m-h--P-

e-Gmh-zB-P-q-GbP-P-mG -z-z-Dm-hP-uP--b-hG-Dm-m-mG -z-D-P-P---q-wm-i-hP-GTm-m-dG-zbP-e-z--mG


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wary. It marks its territory with scent from anal glands or urine. The

male territories overlap with those of various females. Mating time

is September-October or February-March. Four to five young are

produced. Only one litter is produced in a year. The gestation period

is about 60-63 days. The female alone takes care of the offsprings.

The offsprings start hunting at about 4 months.

Status and Distribution: In Ladakh it is an occasional resident. It is

generally found throughout Ladakh, except for high altitude plains

of eastern Ladakh, from valley bottoms to 4000 m. It is best

encountered in Kargil region, lower Indus, Nubra valleys and lower

region of Hemis National Park. The species is represented by 14

races throughout the temperate and alpine zone.

The animal is hunted for fur or trapped for causing damage topoultry. Not much is known about its status.


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w-;m-m---q--;m-m---m-mP-P--z-e-P-P-mG w---q-h-q-z--z-G--z-hP- w----T-;m-m-mG -D--y-G--GTG-w!P-P-mG y-G-z-S--wP-P-mG DG-q-mP-P-y-G-G--iG-T-P-m-iG-T--G----mG y-G-;m----GTG-q-ze-BP--mG-z-dP-m-y-G-;m-m-P-GbP-fz-q-m-mGEz-DP-hG---z-+z-+z--hG-G-mG -hG---xG--f--;m--GbG-q-P-q-f-m-f-h---4000G-q--z-h-h!-m-mG -z-h;-H-YP-hP- P-G-GP-q-h--;m-hP- mz--hP- --m--m-q-G-G-YP-;m--fP-P-mG-z-G-Mh-m--IP--q-YP-m-IP---YP-G-!q-o-zT-z-h-h-

m-mG -z-qG-q-w-hP- -w---Gm!h-zB-h-q-P-Gh-h-!m-mG-z-Gm-eP--+--M-P-q-G-h-q-m-mG


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Eurasian Otter

Common name : Eurasian OtterScientific Name : Lutra lutraLocal Name : ChushamSize : Body Length 60-80 cm, Shoulder Height 20-25 cm,

Tail Length 35-40 cmWeight : 5 kg

Description: Otters are adapted to aquatic life. The Eurasian Otter

has a rough water proof coat. Tail is thick and muscular. Muzzle is

short with sensitive whiskers. The limbs are short and strong. The

feet are five-toed, webbed and provided with retractile claws. The

hind legs are longer than fore legs. The colour of the coat on dorsal

surface is brown while the under parts are lighter. The hairs of the

muzzle terminate above the naked nose in an angular or zigzag line.

On the land the animal appears arch-backed.

Sanchez & Lope / WWF-Canon


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V-u!-zbP-P- --m---m-G-G-P- -------Gm--P- V-

zP-h m----60m-80Uh ;--S-m-mGI-zh-;m--V-mP-P--!-wh-G-P-!e-m-mG --m-m--;m--V--m--P-;!-G-h-h-m-mG Q--z-fG--hP--Tm-P-P-mG D--fP-Pm-

hP-HG-q--Dm-m---h-h-m-mG m-G-fP-Pm-hP-G-Tm-m-mGm-G-fP-!Pm-hP-G-Tm-m-mG @P-q--G-G-S--hP--b-h-Dm-hP-k--k-Zm--h-h-m-mG hm-m-G-G-;m-m-P-Mz-z-G-G-;m-P-P-G-h-h-m-mG K-q-xG-;m-m-hG-G-q-m-mG Ih-q-xG-q-B-z-m-mG D---t-;m-o-DP-t-h-q-!xG--G-zTh-h--b-V-mG-+--;--z-K-!K-G-fP-P-mGGm--hP-uh--z-P-P----Mh-h-IG-q-hP- V-GP--h-q--VP-Pm-h---mG -z-m--I--hP-z-Dm-G-P-P-mG -z-G-Gm--ze---w-Mz-z-m-G-;m-m-;-P-b-!hG-G-mG -z-D-P-I---hP--BG-hP- Z--q-hP- P--hm--qG-m-h-q-M-V-mG-z-P-P-G G-q-mP-m-o-G-wP-e-qG-q-;m--z+-GbP-P-mGh-z--b-G G-q-V-G---mG IG-q-V-IP--m-Bz-bP-z--mG

-z-hGm-h--h--;m--zz-b-P-P-mG w--GZ-;-z-e-G-m-mG-h-q--12m-15-G-q-hG-G-mG ---y-G----mG y-G-D-q-m-G-60m-65----mG G-hP-wP-Gz-z-mP-P--z@-b-h-q-P-


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Habitat and Behavior: The animal establishes its territory in mountain

streams or fresh water lakes. The animal is nocturnal and is very shy.

It often stands on hind limbs for observation. Its presence can be

recorded from its tracks, feces, fish bones and scales found near

its den.

The animal secretes oil from its sebaceous glands and applies it onits skin to keep it water proof and for protection against the cold water

of the streams. The animal migrates to lower valleys during winter.

The sexes are alike. The recorded longevity is 12-15 years. Only one

litter is produced per year. The gestation period is 60 to 65 days.

The litter consists of 1 to 3 cubs born in dens dug out amidst rocks

and boulders. The mating takes place in water. The female cares for

offspring till they attain the age of one year.

Status and Distribution: In Ladakh this animal may best be found up

to 3700 m along the Indus River and its tributaries including Rumtse

and lower Zanskar. It is also reported from Kargil area, Suru and

Dras valleys. The animal is represented by 10 races and is the most

widely distributed otter species in the world. It is found from North

Africa and Europe throughout Palearctic region to East Asia.

The animal is hunted for its fur and medicinal value.


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-mP-P-y-G-GTG-m-G--G-q---mG w----q-hGm--V-mGy-G--GTG-G-q---ze-BP--mG-Ez-DP-hG----Tm-q-f-h---3700--P-G-GP-q-Mh-;m-hP-

V-zz--P-q-;m-hP---hP-P-h;-;m--P-hG h;-H-hP- --hP- h--;m-P-P-hG -z-G-Mh-o-zT-G-h-h-mmGWG-d!m-m-xG-P--P-hG -z-w--;-P-xG-hP--z-hP--;-G-G-YP-m-----xG--h-h-m-mG-z-qG-q-hP- m--z;-z-w-Gh-h-mG -z--JP-P--Tm-P-Bz-z-f-mP-P-Vh-h-m-mG


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Himalayan Marmot

Common Name : Himalayan MarmotScientific Name : Marmota himalayanaLocal Name : PhiaSize : Body Length 58-60 cm, Tail Length 13-15 cm

Weight : 4-5 kg (spring), 8 kg (autumn)

Description: Two species of marmots are found in India. Both the

species of marmot viz., Himalayan and Long-tailed Marmot are present

in Ladakh. The Himalayan Marmot is well adapted to burrow life. The

body is squat, limbs are short and the tail is very short. The head

is triangular in shape with small neck, eyes have black rings. The

whiskers are long. The colour of the body and limbs is pale tawny,

much mixed with black on the upper parts. The face and the terminal

portion of the tail are dark brown. There are six pairs of mammae

extending from the axial to the groin.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal lives in colonies in the higherbiotopes in lush meadows and open grassy stone-strewn slopes.

The animal lives in excavated burrows which are also used for

hibernation. The territory is marked by a secretion which is secreted

Anupam Anand


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----wu-zbP-P- ---m--m-G-G-P- ---z-zG------Gm--P- w- -Lh-

zP-h z--58m-60I-zhM-G--w-G-GZ-h-h-m-mG w-G-GZ-;-hq-m- ---m-hP- Q--P-q-h-q-w-GZ-;--hG--h-h-m-mG ---m-m-w-z--hP-P-mP-P-hG-G-m-mG G G-q-TP-TP-P-

P-b-hG--hP- m-G-;m-fP-Pm-hP- Q--z--fP-Pm-m-mGWP-q-VP-!Pm-Tm-m-G-z-I-G-hP- G-G--mG-q--h-h-m-mGP--P-q-m-mG G G-q-hP- m-G-;m-m-hG-q--B-hP- D-bG-P-q-mG-q-i-b-P-P-mG GhP-hP-Q--WG-xG-q-G-mG-m-mG Ih-q-D--m--V-iG-h-h-m-mG-Gm--hP-uh-w-m-f--tP--Tm-hP- tP-hP-l-z-f-f-h-q-Gm--;m--P-q-Z-q-hG-G-mG -z--hP-P-q--b-h-mP-P-hG-G-mG hm-m-z-m-b-hG--P-z;--mG --q-;-;-m-zP-Dm-m-D-z-G-G-dG-zbP-e-z--mG -z-Z--h--zP-P-mG h--S-hG-w-hG-G--z-mGm--P--mP-P-G--mG w-P--m----20m-100G-q--b-mP-P--M-Tm--b-P-P-h-P--ze-mG WG---m-;-T-GbP-P-mG;-T--z-hP- P--P--mP-P-G--mG k-WG-G---WG-m-i--zG-q-G-wP-GbP-P-mG hGm--P--mP-P-m-b--iG-zhm--hG-G-mGP--K--l-z-hP-tP-hP- -zbP-e-z;G-q-m-mG m-b-h-q-h--D---q--- -z--q-ZP-Pm-V-mG hrh-z-q-hP- -z-P--mP-m-zP-P-mG -z--hP-z-fG-hP- --hP-Ym-q-Pq--z-;m-z-mG


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from chin glands. The animal is active by day and feeds in the

morning and afternoon in summer. They go into dens during night.

The burrows have 2 to 3 entrances and are 20 to 100 cm long, ending

in large chambers. The animal often stands on its hind limbs for

observation. On sensing danger the animal gives a screaming call.

All family members rush to their burrows on listening to this call. A

foul stinky substance is ejected from the anal gland on being threatened.

The animal goes in for hibernation for about 6 to 7 months in its burrow

during winter. The entrances of the burrows are plugged with stones,

grass and soil. During the hibernation the metabolism of the animal

slows down. With the coming of spring it emerges from the burrow.

The animal feeds on grasses, roots, leaves and seeds of various

plants. They usually sit outside their burrows to bask in the sun. The

female is receptive for one day only and mating takes place with

several males. The gestation period is 33 to 34 days. The litter size is

2 to 7 offsprings. The offsprings are born naked and blind and open

their eyes after three weeks.

Status and Distribution: In Ladakh the Himalayan Marmot is a common

resident living between 4000 to 5000 m. It is mainly found in

central-south, eastern and northern Ladakh. Upper Markha valley

in Hemis National Park, Changthang plains including Tsokar and

Rupshu, Puga, Tsomoriri are the best locations for its sighting. Thesub species is distributed through Himalayan range to South-Western

East Asia. Natural predators include Snow Leopard, wolf, fox, wild-dog,

bear and Golden Eagle.

It is a threatened species and is killed for meat and fur. The

construction of road through its habitat has disturbed this species.

The labourers engaged for construction of road also kill this animal

for meat.


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h-;m-P--w-G-G-Z--z-b-hG-G-mG -;m-w-D-TG--hP- Z-q---mG m-mP-h-z-G-GTG--m---h-q-m-mG y-G-D-q-m-B-B-G-q-G-33m-34-G--mG y-G-zP-h-q-2m-7G-q-y-G-P-P-mGy-G-;m-GT!-Z-hP--z-B-mG zhm-G-G--dP-m-G-z-mG

Ez-DP-hG-----m-w-m-G-P--P-P-mG h-;m--Eh-fm-q---4000m-5000--f--;m--hG-G-mG -z-P-V-z--xG--GP-hP- -xG-hP- P-xG-;m--P-hG --m-m-q-G-G--D-eh-xG-hP-P-fP-P--h;-hP- z--hP-q-G-hP- ----;m---z-P-q-fP-P-mGh--G-Mh-m-m-Dm-!;m-----YP-m--mz-hP- ----xG-;m--h-;G GTm-hP-uP-;-hP- --hP- -E-hP- ih--hP- Mz-JG-;m-m-

w-Gh-h-mG-z-G-Mh-eP-q-WG-m-mG T- -m--hP-qG-q-w-Gh-h-mG-;m-h--m---q-P--;m--Gmh-q-z-b-m-mG --Dm-;m-m-P--z-Gh-h-z-mG


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Long-tailed Marmot

Common Name : Long-tailed Marmot/ Red Marmot/ Kashmir MarmotScientific Name : Marmota caudataLocal Name : PhiaSize : Body Length 56-58 cm, Tail Length 30-35 cm

Weight : 4-7 kgDescription: This

is a more richly

coloured marmot,

well adapted to

burrow life. The

body is large,

squat with short

limbs. The lengthof the tail is about

half the length

of the body. The

hair is black at

the tips and tawny at the base. Coloration varies from yellowish-tawny

to orange. Head is flat and triangular in shape. Eyes are black. The

whiskers are sensitive and long.

Habitat and Behavior: The animal is found in family groups. It is

encountered in high biotopes between 2400-5500 m on rock strewn

slopes and dry meadows. It is territorial and the territory is marked by

a secretion from its chin glands. They dig out burrows in the ground

which are 20 to 100 cm long and 4 to 6 m deep. These burrows end

in large chambers and have 2 to 3 entrances. On sensing danger

the animal gives out alarm call which makes all family members to

rush into their burrows for shelter. A foul stinky substance is ejectedfrom anal glands on being threatened.

Otto Pfister


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w-Q--P-qu-zbP-P- P-^--m-G-G-P- --- ;---Gm--P- w

Uh- ;--4m-7I-zh -z-hG-Tm-m-w--hP-P-P--mP-P-hG-G-V-Dm-m-mGG G-q-Vm-q- m-G-fP-Pm-m-;-E-TP--P-b-hG-Dm-m-mG Q--P-q- G G-q-wh-G-m-mG t-G-;m-mG-q-hP- -z-;m--G-m-mG t-hG-q--G-m--hzP-hG-G-q----P-hG G-I-G-z-z-m-mG G-q-mG-q-m-mG P--;m-T-fP-HG-q--Dm-hP-P-q-mGGm--hP-uh---Tm-;m-mP-P----D-TG--h-q-fP-P-mG -;m--Eh-fm-q---2400m-5500G-q-f--;m--hG-G-mG wP-Gz-hP-tP-+-h--;m--hG-G-mG -z-P-P----b-hG-Dm-m-mG--q-;-;-m-D-z-G-wP-!e-P-P----dG-zbP-e-z--mGh-;m-m---b-P--mG P-;m-m----20m-100G-q-P-q-hP-

f----4m-6G-q-P-P-mG G--K-2m-3-P-P-mG WG---m--z-;-T-GbP-P-mG P-P--P-P-HG-q-G-V-mG WG--m-i--zG-q-G-wP-e-k-WG-GbP-P-mG-z-Z--hG-Dm-m-mG h-GP-q-S-hG-hP-w-hG-G--z-zP-P-mGhGm--P-P-P--mP-P-m-b--iG-zhm--hG-G-mG m-b-hG-q-h----z-----;m-G--H--mG -;m-Zm-hGP-P-P--w-G-G-Z--z-b-hG-G-mG -GTG-G-mP-P-y-G--GTG-wP-P-mG -;m-w-hP-Z-q-G-GTG--m-hG-G--mG --q-P--mP-P!---mGDG-q-mP-P-y-G--GTG---mG y-G-GZ-m-zhm-G-q-wP-P-mG B--m-GT-Z-hP--z-P-P-mG zhm-G-iG-G-dP-m-w-G-G-zP-P-mG


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The animal is diurnal and feeds in morning and afternoon throughout

the summer. It hibernates for 6 to 7 months during winter in its burrow.

The metabolism of the animal during hibernation slows down.

During midday the animal sits outside the burrow for basking. Only

one litter is produced per year. The female is receptive for one day

only. Mating takes place while inside the burrow. Gestation period

is one month. The litter consists of 2 to7 naked, blind offsprings.

The young ones open their eyes at 3 weeks and come out when 6

weeks old.

Documents

Field Guide Mammals of Ladakh