The Artful Pursuit of Snow Leopards

By Jigmat Lundup, 2024

Dorjey Tsering, a dedicated snow leopard spotter in Kibber, begins each day with the first rays of the sun. His routine involves ascending towards Badang, navigating the steep gorge that flanks the village of Kibber. To be a proficient spotter, one must assimilate into the world of a snow leopard. For Dorjey Tsering, the most important thing is to possess an intimate knowledge of the snow leopard's habitat, including the trails it frequents. To effectively track the elusive feline, one must keenly observe its pugmarks and scent marks, essentially adopting the perspective of the snow leopard itself. Yet, being a skilled spotter requires more than just technical know-how. It demands the cultivation of qualities such as patience and perseverance. Above all, a genuine passion for the mysterious creature is indispensable. The challenging task of scanning the horizon persists until the sun sets. The terrain is replete with numerous hiding spots, and the snow leopard’s remarkable ability to blend seamlessly into its surroundings, especially in the absence of snow, makes the pursuit of spotting an art.