The IUCN Red Data Book lists the Snow leopard (Panthera uncia) as a globally endangered species. It is estimated that the total remaining population is 7,000 to 10,000, out of which ,approximately, 300 are found in Pakistan.
WWF-P has identified some of the critical habitats of the Snow leopard and now plans to extend its scope of activities by focusing on identifying critical habitats in NWFP, AJK and Northern Areas. The number of Snow leopards killed by graziers will be reduced by raising the awareness of local communities and improving livestock protection, by training and developing the skills of grazier communities.
During the week prior to July 12, 2005, the WWF-P began receiving word that a goat herder and his family in the Nalter region of the Northern Areas --- about a two hours drive over rough roads from Gilgit --- were giving shelter to an orphaned snow leopard cub. Then the goat heard himself, acting on his own initiative, approached the WWF-P for help.more