Kathmandu, Nepal March 16, 2026: In a significant move for South Asian biodiversity, forest authorities, environmental scientists, and wildlife conservationists from Nepal, India and Bhutan have agreed to form a collaborative transboundary network. This alliance aims to strengthen the protection and conservation of small wild cats across the region. The decision was finalized during the concluding session of the third international transboundary meet, held at the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. Organized by the Global Tiger Forum (GTF) under its GEF-7 programme, the summit brought together regional experts to address the long-neglected needs of smaller felids—such as the Fishing Cat, Leopard Cat, and Jungle Cat—which often live in the shadow of larger predators like tigers and leopards.
The newly established network will facilitate joint scientific research and a comprehensive situation analysis of small wild cat populations and their habitats across the shared Terai and Himalayan landscapes. Highlighting the ecological importance of these "mesopredators," officials noted that small wild cats play a vital role in maintaining the balance of regional ecosystems by regulating rodent and small mammal populations. By aligning their conservation strategies, the three nations hope to mitigate common threats, including habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, and illegal poaching, while fostering cross-border cooperation and community engagement.
A key highlight of the meet was the release of a specialized field guide by WWF-India, titled "An Identification Manual for Wild Cats in the Dudhwa Landscape." This manual is designed to assist frontline forest officials and researchers in accurately monitoring these elusive species. Leading experts, including Dr. Rajesh Gopal of the Global Tiger Forum, emphasized that this initiative is not only about protecting South Asian wildlife but also about building a global model for transboundary conservation. As the nations move toward implementation, the network is expected to bridge critical data gaps and ensure that the region's small cats receive the scientific and political attention necessary for their long-term survival.
