Overview

The snow leopards were trapped using special foot-snares that have been modified to decrease the possibility of injury to the animal. They were then anesthetized before being handled and fitted with a special collar that will track their movements via satellite over the next 13 months, by which then the collars will automatically drop off. Based on clinical examinations, the snow leopards were deemed healthy. 

Nowshak (Noshaq or Nowshakh) – At 7,492 meters (24,580 feet) high, Nowshak is the highest mountain in Afghanistan and the second highest independent peak of the Hindu Kush (after Tirich Mir in Pakistan which reaches heights of 7,690m (or 25,230 feet). Nowshak is located in the northeastern corner of Afghanistan, along the Durand line which marks the border with Pakistan. The north and west sides of the mountain are in Afghanistan whereas the south and eastern sides are in Pakistan.