Up in the snow-capped Tien Shan mountains, a team of researchers are tracking snow leopards, recording their pugmarks, kills and scat. Sightings of the cats themselves are rare - some estimates say there are as few as 3,500 snow leopards left in the wild, with 150 to 200 in Kyrgyzstan. They are also shy, solitary and elusive, disappearing into the environment on softly padded feet.
The team is up in the mountains to get a more concrete population estimate and assess the status and distribution of their prey species such as the Tien Shan argali and the Central Asian ibex, along with other animals such as marmots and birds. They also work with local communities and the anti-poaching patrol on educational activities.
Life isn't easy at such high altitudes, with the terrain covered reaching up to 3,800m above sea level, and expedition-style base camp conditions with accommodation in yurts and dome tents. But the tracking being done, expanding knowledge of these vulnerable creatures in support of conservation efforts, is worthy work.
While scientists run the programme, much of the daily recording is done by layperson volunteers who pay around US$3,000 (S$4,100) plus flights for two weeks up this stunning, remote region. The programme is offered by Biosphere Expeditions, an award-winning citizen science-based wildlife conservation nonprofit founded in 1999.
Biosphere Expeditions is just one organisation offering such trips to those seeking something more meaningful than typical touristy itineraries. Volunteers with the Earthwatch Institute can channel their inner Indiana Jones in helping excavate the Roman settlement of Poggio del Molino in Tuscany, digging for fossils in Zambia, searching for pink river dolphins and giant river otters in the Amazon Basin, trailing chimps in Uganda or tracking killer whales off Iceland.
Denne historien er fra December 2023-utgaven av Prestige Singapore.
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Denne historien er fra December 2023-utgaven av Prestige Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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Double Take
Although somewhat dismissed by the contemporary art world as gimmicky, works that incorporate optical illusions remain immensely popular with the general public. Perhaps it speaks to our inherent need for something slightly magical in our everyday lives.
Plugged Into Wealth
Fintech advocate Carney Mak is bullish on disruptive technologies, but preaches deep understanding of business models before diving in.
Going for Green
SIMON ROGAN's visionary approach of cooking in tune with nature is inspiring chefs in Asia to be more sustainable.
TABLES TURNED
They could have their pick of the best schools, but more young super achievers from Asia are going to a hotel academy a choice they believe opens up more doors.
PRECIOUS HISTORY
Cleef Arpel TACHA VASSILTCHIKOV res her insights the jewellery house Peers preserving its patrimony and Heritage.
MARKS OF DISTINCTION
A clasp-free necklace that could be easily put on by the wearer, without assistance.
Colours of the Season
Thanks to K-pop stars, analysing colours to personalise make-up has surged, with theslategs service available from the boutique of Korean. brity make-up artist JUNG SAEM MOOL.
MAKING OF AN OPUS
In Hermes’ Barénia, in-house perfumer CHRISTINE NAGEL has realised a decade-long dream that harks back to her childhood stories.
Everywhere Care
Serums from homegrown skincare brand Blé de Fonty target more than just the face.
Pucker Up
Lip moisturisers are essential in Singapore’s air-conditioned environment. We share our personal favourites and introduce lip care that go the distance.