Distribution Pattern and Conservation Threats to Red Panda: A case study from 'Syama' VDC (Dolakha) of Gaurishankar Conservation Area Nepal

Red panda (Taxonomic name; Ailurus fulgens) is the only species of genus Ailurus. They are arboreal, elusive, and solitary and sparsely distributed small-bodied mammalian carnivore. The red pandas present distribution extends from Nepal through Bhutan, India, Burma and Myanmar in the Himalayas, to China. It is unique in the animal world because it has no close living relatives and its family, Ailuridae, has only one genus, Ailurus. In Nepal, it is legally protected by NPWC Act 1973, listed as vulnerable by IUCN Red list (2010) and internationally protected by CITES and enlisted under Appendix1.The study assessed distribution pattern and the emerging threats to red panda in Gauri Shankar Conservation Area. This study further investigated the habitat preference to red panda. This study provides baseline information regarding the population distribution, and threats for it on the site providing information for its effective management in the days to come. It will be helpful for the further studies for the future researchers, wildlife biologists and other interested individuals.

A young and energetic forester by profession Mr. Sharma is an enthusiastic graduate from Kathmandu forestry college (Tribhuvan University) Nepal. He has keen interests on wildlife and natural sciences.