Blue sheep breeding success at Kufri’s nature park marks conservation milestone

In a major stride towards wildlife conservation, the Himalayan Nature Park at Kufri has successfully bred the blue sheep, locally known as bharal (pseudois nayaur), for the first time. The achievement is being hailed as a significant step in preserving the high-altitude biodiversity of the Western Himalayas.

Nestled at an altitude of over 2,600 m, the Himalayan Nature Park spans 13.73 hectares of temperate forest dominated by deodar, fir, spruce and oak — offering an ideal environment for species adapted to rugged mountainous terrain. The park’s recent success is the result of meticulous planning, habitat management and a focused conservation breeding programme.

According to Shahnawaz Bhat, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Wildlife Wing Shimla, the breeding initiative began in 2023 with the arrival of three bharals from the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park in Darjeeling under a wildlife exchange programme. “These animals were first quarantined and gradually acclimatized to their new surroundings before being introduced into specialised enclosures that mimic their natural habitat,” Bhat said.

Highlighting the ecological importance of the bharal, Bhat added, “The blue sheep play a vital role in the Himalayan ecosystem as a key prey species for the endangered snow leopard. Their conservation ensures the sustenance of a balanced predator-prey dynamic, which is essential for maintaining the ecological integrity of the region.”

The successful breeding is not just a boost to local biodiversity but also to regional conservation goals. The initiative aligns with national efforts under various wildlife protection and habitat conservation frameworks, strengthening the ecological resilience of high-altitude habitats.

The breeding success has also enhanced the park’s potential as a model for conservation-based ecotourism. The presence of bharals provides a unique opportunity for visitors to witness a species that typically inhabits remote and inaccessible alpine areas. “By enabling people to observe such elusive species up close in a naturalistic setting, we aim to inspire greater awareness and appreciation for Himalayan wildlife,” said Bhat.

Looking ahead, the Himalayan Nature Park is planning to expand its conservation footprint by introducing more native species into its breeding programmes and increasing community engagement through educational outreach. Collaborations with national and international wildlife bodies are also in the pipeline to bolster scientific exchange and long-term sustainability.