Work

A call for urgent action to protect wild yak in the Himalayan regions

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: The wild yak ( Bos mutus ), an iconic species of the Himalayan highlands, is facing increasing threats to its survival. Despite their ecological and cultural significance, wild yak populations are in decline due to genetic introgression from domestic yaks, habitat degradation, competition for forage, poaching, and climate-induced stressors such as invasive species encroachment. While China has undertaken notable conservation efforts, including habitat protection and management, neighboring countries have yet to implement coordinated strategies. This paper highlights the urgent need for transboundary conservation policies that prioritize habitat protection, minimize genetic degradation, control invasive species, and strengthen anti-poaching laws to ensure the long-term survival of wild yaks and the ecological resilience of the Himalayan region.

Source: Global Ecology and Conservation

DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2026.e04075

Authors: Krishna Prasad Acharya, Sarita Phuyal, Babu Ram Lamichhane

Institution: Government of Nepal

Language: English

Topic: Wildlife Ecology and Conservation

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Life on land

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,980