Update from our snow leopard volunteering to the Tien Shan mountains
We are half-way through group 1 and have more successes to report. One of the camera traps yielded more snow leopard photos (see sample above). From other camera traps, SD cards were removed, presumably by poachers who do not exactly want to be found out.
Snow leopard scat and photos
We have also collected presumed snow leopard scat on three occasions. Of course, only the DNA analysis back in Europe after the expedition will tell which species it was from, but it’s a promising start on that collection effort too.
Surveying the hills with specatcular views
Other than that, our now well-trained snow leopard volunteering teams have walked the hills and mountains scoring off other species such as ibex, marmot and livestock to build a picture of land use by wild and domestic animals.
This helps us build a comprehensive picture of the land of the snow leopard each year and compare how prey base and other factors change over time.
It also gives us spectacular views.
Planning and data entry
Also, planning and data entry are going well.
Next week our focus will shift towards interviews with local shepherds, as well as running some overnight surveys into the neighbouring valleys.
Rest day Sunday
But before that, Sunday was our rest day. The neighbours invited us to a traditional feast. The carnivores on the expedition paid for this (remember Biosphere Expeditions only serves vegetarian food).
The weather has been kind to us, treating us to some spectacular sunsets. But this is about to change…
Wish us look for the week and work ahead.
Read also: First I second I third I fourth I fifth diary entry of the Tien Shan snow leopard volunteering expedition. All Tien Shan 2026 diary entries on one page.
Author: Darran Keogh
Darran Keogh grew up in Ireland and has spent much of his adult life travelling and working in the outdoor industry. He has a degree in Outdoor Education and Geography and is a qualified Mountain Leader and an International Mountain Leader Aspirant. An adventurous spirit has taken him to explore remote areas around the world and in recent years Europe’s great mountain ranges from a base in Chamonix Valley, France. Happiest sleeping under the stars, climbing, surfing or exploring snowy mountains, he is now based in Ireland once again, with his attention turned to conservation: Darren is a member of Ireland’s Governing Body for mountaineering’s Climate action group, has another degree in studying Climate, Sustainability and Environment and is a proud member of the Biosphere Expeditions team. More about Darran.