First photographic record of elusive cat has been documented in the high-altitude regions of Arunachal Pradesh, marking a milestone in India’s wildlife research. A recent survey has provided the first photographic evidence of the rare Pallas’s cat in the state, along with the presence of five other wild cat species at extreme elevations. The discovery highlights the rich biodiversity of the eastern Himalayas and opens new doors for conservation efforts.
Historic Discovery in Arunachal Pradesh
The wildlife survey, carried out by WWF-India in collaboration with the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department and local communities, revealed several extraordinary findings. Most significant was the confirmation of the Pallas’s cat, one of the world’s most elusive wild felines, recorded for the first time in the state through camera trap images.
Alongside this, the survey documented the snow leopard, common leopard, clouded leopard, leopard cat, and marbled cat above 4,200 metres. Such high-altitude presence of multiple species indicates that the Himalayan rangelands of Arunachal Pradesh are home to an unparalleled diversity of wild cats.
A Survey Backed by Science and Communities
The study was conducted in 2024 under the project Reviving Trans-Himalayan Rangelands – A Community-led Vision for People and Nature, supported by the UK Government’s Darwin Initiative. The project aims to combine ecological research with local knowledge to safeguard fragile mountain ecosystems.
During the survey, researchers deployed 136 camera traps across 83 sites, covering nearly 2,000 square kilometres of rugged landscapes in the districts of West Kameng and Tawang. These efforts, supported by herders and villagers, captured valuable images that serve as undeniable proof of the presence of rare and high-altitude wildlife.
Record-Breaking Elevations for Several Species
Beyond the first photographic record of elusive cat, the survey documented the highest elevations ever recorded in India for several animals. For instance:
- Common leopard was recorded at 4,600 metres above sea level
- Clouded leopard at 4,650 metres
- Marbled cat at 4,326 metres
- Himalayan wood owl at 4,194 metres
- Grey-headed flying squirrel at 4,506 metres
These are the highest elevation records in the country for these species, demonstrating the adaptability of wildlife in extreme conditions.
Why Pallas’s Cat Matters
Pallas’s cat (Otocolobus manul) is one of the rarest and least-studied cats in the world. Known for its dense fur and round face, the species is specially adapted to survive in cold, high-altitude landscapes. Its elusive nature and remote habitat have kept it largely hidden from scientists, making this discovery in Arunachal Pradesh both exciting and scientifically important.
“This finding is remarkable,” said Taku Sai, Senior Project Officer at WWF-India. “The presence of multiple wild cats at such extreme elevations creates exciting new opportunities for ecological research and conservation.”
Expert Reactions to the Discovery
The discovery has drawn attention from conservation leaders across the country.
Dr. Rishi Kumar Sharma, Head of Science and Conservation, Himalayas Programme, WWF-India, explained:
“The discovery of Pallas’s Cat in Arunachal Pradesh at nearly 5,000 metres is a powerful reminder of how little we still know about life in the high Himalayas. The fact that the same landscape supports snow leopards, clouded leopards, marbled cats, and now Pallas’s cat speaks to its extraordinary richness and resilience. These findings highlight the importance of community-led conservation, backed by science and local knowledge, to secure the future of our fragile rangelands.”
Adding to this, Ngilyang Tam, Principal Chief Conservator of Forest, Arunachal Pradesh, said:
“The discovery of Pallas’s cat in Arunachal Pradesh is a milestone for wildlife research in the eastern Himalayas. The survey represents a unique collaboration between the Forest Department, WWF-India, and local communities. The active participation of herders and villagers shows that conservation and traditional livelihoods can go hand in hand to protect fragile mountain ecosystems.”
Table: Key Highlights of the Arunachal Pradesh Wildlife Survey
| Species / Finding | Elevation Recorded (Metres) | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Pallas’s Cat | ~5,000 | First photographic record in Arunachal Pradesh |
| Snow Leopard | 4,200+ | Confirms stable population in high Himalayas |
| Common Leopard | 4,600 | Highest record in India |
| Clouded Leopard | 4,650 | Highest record in India |
| Marbled Cat | 4,326 | Highest record in India |
| Himalayan Wood Owl | 4,194 | Highest record in India |
| Grey-headed Flying Squirrel | 4,506 | Highest record in India |
Significance of the Findings
The documentation of so many species at extreme elevations highlights Arunachal Pradesh as one of the richest landscapes for wild cats in the world. For conservationists, this is not only an achievement in terms of wildlife research but also a call to strengthen efforts to protect the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The findings also show the importance of combining modern scientific techniques like camera trapping with the traditional knowledge of local herders and villagers. Their participation ensured that the survey could be conducted in remote and challenging landscapes where researchers alone might have struggled.
Also read: Nepal Joins International Big Cat Alliance: A Big Step for Global Wildlife Conservation
Looking Ahead
With the first photographic record of elusive cat now confirmed, conservationists believe this discovery could lead to more studies in the high Himalayas. Researchers plan to continue long-term monitoring to understand how these wild cats interact with each other, how they adapt to harsh climates, and how human activities affect their survival.
The presence of multiple wild cats in the same landscape also makes the region an ecological hotspot. Protecting it will require a balanced approach that safeguards both wildlife and the livelihoods of local communities. WWF-India and the State Forest Department are committed to working together with villagers to achieve this.
Also read: Best Wildlife Photo Entries of the Year: Nature’s Most Stunning Shots Revealed
Conclusion
The first photographic record of elusive cat in Arunachal Pradesh is a landmark moment in Indian wildlife conservation. Combined with the discovery of other rare wild cats at extreme elevations, it underscores the extraordinary biodiversity of the eastern Himalayas. The survey proves that even in the most remote corners of India, there are still secrets waiting to be uncovered.
As conservationists, scientists, and communities continue to collaborate, Arunachal Pradesh is set to play a leading role in shaping the future of wildlife research and protection in the high Himalayas.
