Bethlehem, 22 April 2025 – FOUR PAWS South Africa and LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary highlight the importance of protecting leopards and ensuring their well-being in both the wild and captivity for International Leopard Day. Leopards (Panthera pardus) face increasing threats, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and trade. International Leopard Day, observed on 03 May, is a global initiative dedicated to celebrating the majestic Leopard and creating awareness about the urgent need for their welfare. In South Africa, leopards are not only iconic apex predators but also pivotal to maintaining the ecological balance within diverse habitats.

Leopards have experienced a dramatic reduction in their historical range, now occupying only about 25% of their former territories. This decline is primarily due to habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) currently classifies leopards as vulnerable, with a decreasing population trend. Global animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS has been at the forefront of ending the captive breeding of all big cats in South Africa through its Break the Vicious Cycle campaign and sanctuaries like LIONSROCK, which provides a haven for big cats rescued from inadequate conditions. 

At LIONSROCK, rescued leopards like Bakari, Mike, and Tulani have found a safe and species-appropriate home. Before being brought to Nijeberkoop in 2010, Bakari was used as a photo attraction at a German zoo’s Christmas dinner. When the zoo no longer had space for him, he was sent to Panthera at just two months old. There, he was raised by human caretakers and placed in a small enclosure next to lions – his natural enemies – causing him distress. Pantera was later taken over by FOUR PAWS and renamed FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary. In 2016 Bakari was moved to LIONSROCK and now thrives in an environment that allows him to express natural behaviours. Affectionately known as the “resident couple”, Tulani and Mike have a strong bond despite their differences and past experiences. Tulani was born in 2002, was raised in a safari farm and purchased by the previous owner in 2003 as a cub and hand raised before FOUR PAWS took over the establishment. Mike was captured in a live trap and brought to LIONSROCK in 2005. Both enjoy a peaceful life in the sanctuary, where they receive expert care and enrichment. 

Leopards are often confused with jaguars, but key differences set them apart. Leopards are native to Africa and parts of Asia, while jaguars are found in the Americas. Their rosette patterns also differ, with leopards having smaller, more densely packed spots, while jaguars have larger rosettes with central spots inside them. Understanding these and other differences helps to provide specific care for the unique animal welfare needs of each species.

International Leopard Day serves as a crucial reminder that we must continue advocating for ethical wildlife practices and stronger legal protections to safeguard these magnificent animals. FOUR PAWS South Africa continues to call for an end to the exploitation of big cats in captivity and their commercial trade and breeding and advocates for stricter enforcement against illegal wildlife trade.

To learn more about FOUR PAWS’ efforts and how to support LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, please visit our website www.four-paws.org.za

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