Detection of Mange-Like Skin Lesions on Snow Leopard (Panthera Uncia) and Prey Species in Kyrgyzstan

The study conducted in Kyrgyzstan's Sarychat-Eertash and Naryn Reserves used camera traps to identify mange-like skin lesions in snow leopards and their prey, such as Altai marmots and Siberian ibexes. Since 2012, images have shown signs like alopecia and scabs, with detection rates varying from 0% to 51.07%. Although the lack of biological sampling limits interpretation, these findings highlight concerns about disease transmission among wildlife in these protected areas. The study underscores the need for further research to confirm the causative agents and assess the impact on species conservation in Central Asia's high-mountain ecosystems.