Laspa to Bugudiyar Or the Snow Leopard Problem!

We met a group of shepherds in the village of Laspa this morning and heard the extent of the snow leopard problems. Last year in 2 separate attacks there were 97 sheep killed, 10% of their flock. 4 leopards were seen on these killing sprees and had to be chased off with sticks. Through our guide we proposed: Fox lights which flash, to frighten the leopards, the reintroduction of mastiff dogs to guard to flocks, a compensation fund which could be managed locally as the government does not act on claims.

The shepherds have an additional problem in the winter when their village is snowed in and they are in Munsiari. Poachers of snow leopards and bears, both protected animals, go to Laspa and break into the shepherds' homes to use the houses as their base. The body parts of these animals are so valuable on the world market, sadly. What a hard life these shepherds have.

I was in a very pensive mood when walking down the valley (see extra) to our next campsite. Only 3 more stages to get back to Munsiari. Tonight the river roars and we are surrounded by a flock of bleating sheep, fattened up for the winter when they will get very little to eat. They too are going to Munsiari.