July 28, 2025

Nepal is a biodiversity hotspot that shelters a vast array of wildlife, including many species listed as endangered or vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The country’s unique geography—from lowland Terai to high Himalayan peaks—supports rare animals that are globally threatened due to habitat loss, poaching, and climate change.

This guide highlights some of Nepal’s most endangered species, their conservation status, and ongoing efforts to protect them.


1. Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris tigris)

  • Status: Endangered
  • Habitat: Terai lowlands and foothills (Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta, Parsa)
  • Threats: Poaching, habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict
  • Conservation: Nepal has made remarkable strides in tiger conservation with anti-poaching patrols, habitat corridors, and community engagement.

2. One-Horned Rhinoceros (Rhinoceros unicornis)

  • Status: Vulnerable
  • Habitat: Grasslands and wetlands of Terai (Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta)
  • Threats: Poaching for horn, habitat loss
  • Conservation: Strong protection in national parks, successful breeding programs, and anti-poaching efforts.

3. Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)

  • Status: Vulnerable
  • Habitat: High-altitude alpine and subalpine zones (Annapurna, Manang, Upper Mustang, Kanchenjunga, Dolpo)
  • Threats: Poaching, retaliatory killings, habitat fragmentation
  • Conservation: Community-based conservation, research with camera traps, and transboundary cooperation.

4. Red Panda (Ailurus fulgens)

  • Status: Endangered
  • Habitat: Temperate bamboo forests of eastern Nepal (Kanchenjunga, Makalu Barun)
  • Threats: Habitat degradation, illegal pet trade
  • Conservation: Protected areas, community monitoring, and awareness programs.

5. Asiatic Elephant (Elephas maximus)

  • Status: Endangered
  • Habitat: Terai forests and corridors (Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta, Parsa, Jhapa)
  • Threats: Habitat loss, human-elephant conflict, poaching
  • Conservation: Habitat corridors, community conflict mitigation, and transboundary collaboration.

6. Himalayan Musk Deer (Moschus leucogaster)

  • Status: Vulnerable
  • Habitat: Subalpine forests and alpine meadows (Langtang, Annapurna)
  • Threats: Poaching for musk gland
  • Conservation: Legal protection, anti-poaching patrols.

7. Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus)

  • Status: Critically Endangered
  • Habitat: Rivers in Terai (Koshi, Babai)
  • Threats: Habitat degradation, fishing nets
  • Conservation: Captive breeding and reintroduction programs, habitat protection.

8. Himalayan Black Bear (Ursus thibetanus)

  • Status: Vulnerable
  • Habitat: Temperate forests (Langtang, Shivapuri, Kanchenjunga)
  • Threats: Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict
  • Conservation: Protected areas and community awareness.

9. Sloth Bear (Melursus ursinus)

  • Status: Vulnerable
  • Habitat: Terai and Siwalik forests (Chitwan, Bardia, Shuklaphanta)
  • Threats: Habitat encroachment, poaching
  • Conservation: Anti-poaching measures and habitat protection.

Conservation Efforts in Nepal

Nepal’s success in protecting endangered species comes from a mix of strong legal frameworks, dedicated national parks and reserves, community-based conservation, and international partnerships. Initiatives include:

  • Anti-poaching patrols and law enforcement
  • Habitat corridors to connect fragmented populations
  • Community engagement in monitoring and mitigating conflict
  • Research and monitoring using camera traps and GPS technology
  • Eco-tourism that supports local livelihoods and conservation awareness

How You Can Help

  • Choose responsible tour operators who support conservation and local communities.
  • Respect wildlife and habitats during visits.
  • Support the local conservation NGOs working in Nepal.
  • Spread awareness about endangered species and their importance.