Publications

Camera-Trap Density Estimates of Common Leopards in Human-Dominated Valleys

M. Aslam, T. Khan

Preprint on bioRxiv, 2026

We apply spatially explicit capture–recapture models to two years of camera-trap data to estimate common leopard density in agricultural valleys of northern Pakistan, finding densities sustained largely by domestic prey, with direct implications for human–leopard conflict management.

Diet of the Himalayan Wolf Revealed by DNA Metabarcoding of Scat

S. Ali, M. Aslam, R. Schaller

Journal of Zoology, 318(2), 110–124, 2025

DNA metabarcoding of 240 scat samples shows the Himalayan wolf relies primarily on wild ungulates where they remain abundant, switching to livestock only in heavily grazed valleys — a result that helps target conflict-mitigation effort where it matters most.

Space Use and Habitat Selection of Snow Leopards in the Central Karakoram

M. Aslam, T. Khan, R. Schaller, A. Bhatti

International Snow Leopard Conference, 2025 (Keynote)

Four years of GPS-collar data from 11 snow leopards reveal prey-driven home ranges and strong avoidance of intensively grazed areas, identifying priority connectivity corridors across the Karakoram massif.

Genetic Connectivity of Markhor Across Fragmented Himalayan Habitats

M. Aslam, S. Ali, N. Pettorelli

Society for Conservation Biology, 2025

Microsatellite and mitochondrial analyses of 14 markhor populations show recent fragmentation has reduced gene flow between valleys; we recommend targeted corridor protection to preserve genetic diversity.

Occupancy of Snow Leopard Prey Along an Elevational Gradient

M. Aslam, A. Bhatti

International Mountain Ungulate Symposium, 2024

Using camera-trap occupancy models from 1,800–5,200 m, we map how ibex and blue sheep distribution shifts with snow cover and grazing pressure, providing a baseline for tracking climate-driven range change.