Need for tailored conservation intervention to conserve red panda

The red panda is one of the few species which have gained heightened conservation attention in Nepal. While the outcomes of the conservation are highly positive in some parts of the country, the scenario is opposite in other parts, highlighting the need to reconsider the conservation intervention in those areas. 

The red panda, a member of the Ailuridae family, is an endangered species found in the subtropical and temperate forests. It is also known by the names such as cat bears, lesser pandas, shining cat, firefox, first panda and fox bear. New research classified red pandas into two distinct species: the red panda of Nepal, Bhutan, northern India, northern Myanmar, Tibet and western Yunnan Province of China as the Himalayan red panda (Ailurus fulgens). Its relative in Yunnan and Sichuan provinces of China is the Chinese red panda (Ailurus styani). This species is crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Red pandas are specialized in their habitat and eat primarily bamboo, which makes them an ideal flagship species to inspire public support for biodiversity conservation. 

Organizations like the Red Panda Network are diligently at work in eastern Nepal restoring habitats. These projects include planting bamboo, which is a major source of food for red pandas, reforestation, community-based awareness campaigns, and the construction of wildlife corridors that connect fragmented habitats and make it safer for the animals to move between them. Additionally, the rainwater collected during the monsoon is used to plant seedlings for habitat restoration sites that will be used during the dry season. And promote ecotourism, which can give nearby communities another source of revenue. Six distinct places in eastern Nepal have previously shown success with this intervention: Dobato, Gorkhe, and Choyatar in the Ilam district; Pathibhara region in Taplejung district; Ghyangphedi and Cholangpati in the LNP and garner support for ongoing conservation endeavors. One of the reasons for the successful outcomes in those regions might be the ability of the conservation interventions to link conservation to livelihood particularly through ecotourism activities. 

Conservationists have tried to replicate the efforts in western Nepal, with the focus on public awareness. Different organization programmes have been launched to be aware of the illicit trade of wildlife parts and discussed solutions for, reporting wildlife crime throughout the district and neighboring districts. However, instead of contributing to the conservation outcomes, challenges for the Red Panda have piled up which were unintended by the project. For instance, the number of the people captured with the hides have been increasing in those areas. Poaching of wildlife is rife in Kalikot and Jajarkot districts and the second seizure of red panda hides in Western Rukum where three red pandas were confiscated.

Moreover, the rising trend in seizure instances could point to several contributing variables that encourage the poaching and trade of pelts. Unintentionally miscommunications during awareness campaigns may have implied that engaging in illegal wildlife trafficking has financial benefits. Even though these activities significantly reduce biodiversity, people may view them as useful alternatives for securing their livelihoods in times of financial crisis. 

The eastern region of Nepal, with a higher human development index (HDI), seems to have a better understanding and awareness of red panda conservation compared to the western region. Poaching and illegal trade have increased in the western region. which means HDI ultimately shapes their behavior, resulting in positive or negative effects on wildlife conservation. The habitat of red pandas is being destroyed due to several socioeconomic causes. When using forests and rangelands for livestock grazing, wood collection, fuel wood, and medicinal plant gathering, herders appear to perceive a larger profit. That being said, the perceived benefits listed above cannot be outweighed by economic and social incentives to protect red panda habitats. Poverty is widespread in western areas meaning the conservation intervention implemented should address this through the comprehensive approach. 

Tailored conservation approaches are essential to mitigate the disproportionate threat that red pandas in the western region face. Law enforcement reform is important, but it cannot stop the illegal trade on its own. We might be able to break the chain that connects the misery of red pandas to the financial difficulties of nearby villages by addressing the socioeconomic aspects. Enhancing community knowledge and involvement in conservation tourism should be connected with local livelihood, building the capacity of conservation groups, and constitute a complete approach in order to ensure the coexistence of red pandas and local communities. To reduce dependency on natural resources, comprehensive conservation action should be advocated in the western area. This shows that we need specific plans for each area. It's important to comprehend the socioeconomic context of various locations, and initiatives in western Nepal emphasize the need for customized approaches.

A common commitment to sustainable methods and group efforts are needed to preserve the red panda. As a representation of Nepal's abundant biodiversity, the species' future depends on how carefully human behavior and ecological harmony interact. It is our responsibility as guardians of our natural heritage to ensure these fascinating animals are around to enjoy Nepal’s forests for many more years. This demands tailored conservation interventions that are suited to the local conditions. Furthermore, stakeholders have to identify the options to integrate livelihood concerns in the red panda conservation program.