The local community in Tato Pani Municipality-8 has launched a dedicated conservation campaign for the red panda (Ailurus fulgens). According to estimates, there are between 15 and 20 red pandas residing in the Nadi Community Forest area, which spans 491 square meters. The forest, located near the villages of Machali, Budhabada, and Imilcha, is home to 55 families who are actively involved in the conservation efforts, as shared by the former vice-president of the forest committee, Mr. Bir Bahadur Rokaya.
The initiative to protect the red panda’s habitat gained momentum after both foreign and domestic researchers started visiting the area for studies. In response, the community has taken several steps to preserve the habitat, including preventing wildfires, conducting regular tree planting, stopping illegal logging, and protecting the natural environment that the red pandas depend on.
Efforts have included planting a variety of native plants such as Nigalo, Dhupi, Ghoda Panger, Chuk, Kathe Okhar, Khasru, Sallo, Jhulo, Bhojpatra, and Thingo, which are crucial for the red pandas’ habitat. Additionally, a pond has been constructed inside the forest. “We are excited to find the rare red panda near our village, and its protection is essential. We are now exploring ways to protect its habitat,” said Mr. Rokaya.
Local community members, such as 65-year-old Mun Bahadur Budha, shared that they are actively educating the public about the importance of conservation, asking forest encroachers for clarification, and imposing fines for any damage caused.
Recognizing the community’s dedication to preserving the red panda’s habitat, the Red Panda Network in Kathmandu and Hatemalo Nepal’s Jumla branch have implemented a community-based conservation project in the region. The project spans five community forests in the Syanja, Tatopani, and Patarasi municipalities, all of which serve as habitats for the red panda.
In Patarasi’s Maharudra Basic School and Syanja’s Chulelagau Secondary School, environmental conservation courses have been integrated into the curriculum for Grade 6 students. Additionally, two cameras have been installed in the Maharudra Community Forest in Patmara and the Siyalamul Community Forest, with regular monitoring every 45 days. Over 17,000 trees have been planted across four community forests as part of the ongoing conservation efforts.
The commitment of the local community and various organizations reflects a strong desire to protect the red panda, an endangered species, and their natural environment for future generations.
