3.1 What do people know about the Western WFS?

The findings revealed a concerning lack of awareness about the Western WFS among the surveyed individuals. A majority of respondents (96%) indicated no prior knowledge of the species. When shown an image of the Western WFS, a significant number of participants (n = 42; 65%) misidentified it as other, more familiar animals, primarily the Yellow-throated Marten and Mountain Weasel (Figure 1). This confusion likely arises from the similar body size shared by these species and the higher prevalence of the Marten and Weasel in the region. Two respondents from Dharali, a tour operator and a mountaineer, mentioned that they might have seen the species at high altitudes during their treks, but they were uncertain about their observations.

3.2 Limited local awareness and the need for education

The limited knowledge of the Western WFS among local communities highlights the need for targeted conservation education initiatives. Such programs should aim to raise awareness about this species' unique characteristics and endangered status that differentiate it from similar animals. By engaging local communities in conservation efforts, we can foster a sense of stewardship towards this critically endangered inhabitant of the Himalayas.

3.3 Uncaptured on camera traps and potential habitat threats

Despite deploying camera traps exclusively to track the Western WFS for a period of 10 months (April 2023 to January 2024) in areas with previous sightings, the species eluded capture during our study (Pal et al., 2019, 2020). Research suggests the species prefers rocky terrain interspersed with coniferous trees and even utilises open, treeless areas within sensitive ecosystems (Pal et al., 2019; Zahler & Karim, 1999). This raises concern, as climate change in these high-altitude environments is altering the very fabric of the landscape, and this could impact the squirrel's habitat suitability. While further investigation is essential, the lack of captures in our camera trap study does not necessarily confirm its absence in the area or population decline. However, it is a cause for concern, especially considering the potential impacts of climate change on the WFS's habitat. Therefore, continued research and conservation efforts are urgently needed to better understand and mitigate these potential threats.

3.4 Follow-up steps for the conservation of the WFS

Further research should focus on evaluating the status of WFS populations, with a particular focus on identifying large populations that can be studied and monitored. This includes investigating the species' specific ecological requirements, potential dispersal limitations and the impact of climate change on its habitat suitability. Additionally, engaging local communities through targeted conservation education programs is crucial. Raising awareness about the species' unique characteristics and endangered status while also educating locals on how to differentiate it from similar animals can foster a sense of stewardship and encourage their participation in conservation efforts.

Studies suggest a potential overlap between the regions where Shilajit is found in the Himalayas and the WFS distribution (Pal et al., 2019; Qamar et al., 2012; Zahler & Karim, 1999). Shilajit is a complex, naturally occurring substance found in the high mountain ranges of Asia. It originates as a humic material and is composed of organic matter, including plant and animal debris, along with inorganic minerals. The specific composition of Shilajit varies depending on geographic location and environmental factors, such as temperature. While Shilajit is uncommon in the study area, personal observations by Pal et al. (2019) suggest its presence in locations where a WFS was detected. This potential spatial overlap warrants further investigation. We propose deploying camera traps in additional Shilajit-containing areas throughout the Indian Himalayas to assess the distribution and potential resource utilisation of the WFS. This noninvasive method offers a valuable tool for further research.

Unlocking the secrets of the WFS requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach, combining ecological research, community engagement and conservation action. By deepening our understanding of its current status, ecological niche and the threats it faces, we can develop effective strategies to ensure its survival amidst a changing climate. Such efforts will not only contribute to the preservation of a unique species but also safeguard the integrity of the fragile Himalayan ecosystem, of which it is an integral part.

3.5 Limitations of the present study

Our research relied on a relatively small sample of 65 individuals, potentially limiting the generalisability of findings to the broader community. Additionally, the entire study spanned 10 months, which may not have been sufficient to capture seasonal variations in sightings or community perspectives. Furthermore, we deployed only 15 camera traps, which might have limited our ability to comprehensively survey the potential habitat of the Western WFS. Given the limited resources available, securing a larger number of camera traps proved challenging. Recognising these limitations encourages further research with larger sample sizes, longer durations and increased camera trap deployment to comprehensively understand the dynamics surrounding the Western WFS and the community engagement involved in its conservation. By explicitly addressing these limitations, we acknowledge the need for continued investigation and highlight the valuable foundation laid by this initial study.