Strengthening capacity and diversifying livelihoods of local people for conservation of Chinese pangolin in Bagh Bhairav Community Forest

Kirtipur Municipality and Bagh Bhairav Community Forest User Group together with Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation named the Natural Heritage path as “Pangolin Trail” in habitat of Critically Endangered Chinese pangolin; the Bagh Bhairav Community Forest, Kirtipur on the occasion of “World Pangolin Day 2019” to develop community-based pangolin eco-tourism. Now, it has emerged as a local tourist destination. Currently, the area is famous for short hikes that offer views of the Kathmandu valley and snow-capped mountains along with birding. The project area also has religious, cultural, and historical values due to famous temples and indigenous Tamang and Newar communities living in the hills. Five kilometer of Pangolin trail was maintained by trimming and removing grasses. Saplings of various plant species, including fruits, flowers and broad leaves plants have been planted. A community capacity-strengthening training workshop and alternative livelihood support program were organized along with eco-tour for school children.