A camera-trap study in eastern Sikkim has revealed new high-altitude wildlife records, including a gaur photographed at 3,542 meters, the highest verified global sighting, and a tiger at 3,966 meters, one of the highest documented elevations for the species in the Himalayas.
The research, published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, documented 30 mammal species and identified five new elevational range records and six confirmed photographic records for eastern Sikkim. Factors such as suitable high-altitude habitats, previously unexplored areas, and improved monitoring may explain these findings.
Researchers noted that climate change could also influence wildlife distribution, but long-term monitoring is needed to confirm if animals are moving uphill. The study covered altitudes from 1,800 to 4,200 meters using 64 camera-trap stations across protected areas and adjoining forests.
Source: Down To Earth