Environment News

New Mammal Records in Sikkim

November 12 , 2026 16 hrs 0 min 17 0

A study reported new high-altitude mammal records in eastern Sikkim.
The study recorded Gaur (Bos gaurus) at 3,542 metres in Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary and Tiger (Panthera tigris) at 3,966 metres in the Kyongnosla region, both in Sikkim.
The camera-trap survey (2023–2026) covered 64 stations across three protected areas in Sikkim: Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary, Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary and Fambonglho Wildlife Sanctuary.
Other notable sightings included Red Panda and Golden Jackal at 4,100 metres, Sambar at 3,050 metres and Clouded Leopard at 3,189 metres.
IUCN Red List status: Gaur – Vulnerable (VU); Tiger – Endangered (EN); Red Panda – Endangered (EN); Golden Jackal – Least Concern (LC); Clouded Leopard – Vulnerable (VU).
Researchers identified suitable habitats, improved monitoring and possible climate change impacts as factors; further long-term studies are needed to confirm changes in wildlife distribution.