Joint wildlife patrolling was conducted in the Surkhang area, encompassing Yara, Ghara, and nearby habitats, in collaboration with the Surkhang Police and the Conservation Area Management Committee (CAMC) Surkhang. The initiative aimed to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain biodiversity in the Upper Mustang region.

During the monitoring, 24 Himalayan Griffons (Gyps himalayensis) and 3 Blue Sheep (Pseudois nayaur) were sighted, highlighting the region’s rich biodiversity. Importantly, no illegal activities were detected in the patrolling sites.

Winter wildlife monitoring is critical in Upper Mustang, as the season often sees a reduced presence of local community members. This absence can create vulnerabilities for wildlife, making proactive measures like patrolling essential to prevent potential threats and illegal activities. The initiative reflects the commitment of local authorities and conservation organizations to protect and sustain the unique wildlife of the Upper Mustang region.