Climatic variability and impacts on biodiversity at local level: A case study from Kanchanjanga conservation area, Nepal

Impacts of climatic variability on biodiversity and livelihood aspects were examined in Kanchanjunga Conservation Area (KCA) Nepal .The area is characterized with unique gene pool, cultural, archeological, and historic values. Field reconnaissance survey, interaction with local communities and institutions were carried out for obtaining the necessary information. Linear trend analysis of climatic data in specific temperature and rainfall were analyzed for past 20 years. Major findings of the study were 1) Retreating of glacial lakes were evident, which may bring glacial lake outburst and flood; although no major river flow system was affected, 2) Blankets of snow/ice sheets were reported melted, 3) Habitat of snow leopard was affected and population balance between snow leopard and blue sheep was disturbed, 4) Forest and agro biodiversity, agriculture productivity were affected adversely due to unusual rainfall pattern, pests and diseases, 5) No major river flow system was affected. It was observed that interagency coordination for awareness generation, planning and implementation of climate change coping strategies specially focusing for biodiversity conservation felt urgent. Similarly it is suggested that trans-boundary issues are needed to be considered to address the issues of animal migration.