International Clouded Leopard Day 2022

The fourth of August is celebrated as International Clouded Leopard Day every year, which is celebrated to raise awareness about these elusive endangered species from extinction. Conservation International launched it in 2008 as part of their Save Our Species initiative. This initiative aims to protect endangered wildlife around the world. Since then, the day has grown into one of the most popular wildlife conservation days around the globe. Thousands of people take part in events ranging from zoo or aquarium exhibits of clouded leopards to school conservation education programs.

 Introduction

Clouded leopards are small wild cats found in the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia. Clouded Leopards occur in cold, arid, and semi-arid shrubland, alpine and subalpine areas, grasslands, and open forests, favoring steep terrain characterized by cliffs, ridges, gullies, and rocky outcrops at elevations of between 3,000 m and 5,500 m. They have a black tail tip and are well-known for their lovely markings and spotted coats. Clouded leopards are small wild cats with spots that gradually fade from white to black; they can grow to be 8 inches long (20 cm). Their coloring is typically duller than that of other big cats (such as the leopard or tiger), making them easier to spot in the wild. The blue on this clouded leopard’s face is caused by a patch pf light fur that serves as camouflage when it is resting in sunlight; however, this feature also aids in camouflage against tree bark during night hunts.

The clouded leopard has four subspecies: Indian (Bengal), Malayan (Sumatra), Sri Lankan/ Indian Oceanic, and Sumatran (Java Strait).

Clouded leopards are critically endangered, with only about 1500 left in the wild, according to estimates. They are rarely seen outside of their native range, and there are fewer than 10,000 left in the wild. Clouded leopards are protected under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

In Nepal, this species is restricted to 300-500. Estimates say there are around 100 clouded leopards in Nepal and they were believed to be extinct in the country until 1987. Based on all studies, 32 different records of Clouded Leopard are documented from the country so far. They are found in regions between Taplejung in the east to Nawalparasi in the west, inhabiting at an altitude of up to 3500 meters above sea level. It is listed as vulnerable species by IUCN red list category. The national red list of mammals categorizes it as an endangered species. The legal status of this species in Nepal is Protected (Appendix I) under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1993 and Appendix I in CITES law. 

Clouded leopards primarily hunt small mammals such as rats and monkeys; although they are known to hunt larger prey such as deer, these same hunters will only rarely take on birds such as owls or birds with feathers (like vultures). Because they live near trees as well as beside rivers, where fruit may be available at different times of the year depending on rainfall patterns.”

 Threats

Today, there are approximately 10,000 clouded leopards left in their natural habitat; however, this number has decreased by nearly half since 1980, when there were 20 times more than today’s figures show. Poaching is the primary cause of this decline because their valuable fur and meat sell at high prices on both sides of the border between Nepal and India, where they coexist (and sometimes fight over territory). Furthermore, their habitat is under threat from deforestation caused by logging operations and agricultural development projects. There is limited information on its status and distribution, 

 On International Clouded Leopard Day there are many ways you can participate.

• You can observe a clouded leopard up close by visiting your local zoo or wildlife center on International Clouded Leopard Day. These elusive creatures are rare and endangered, but you might be able to spot one at an animal park near you.
• Make a financial contribution to an organization that aids in clouded leopard conservation. Many organizations around the world are working hard to save these incredible animals from extinction-and you can help them in a variety of ways!
• Volunteer at your local wildlife center (or other organization) by assisting with animal care or clouded leopard research projects. You’ll have a good time, too!
• If you live near a zoo, consider volunteering there as well. Zoo staff frequently require extra help during busy times such as holidays or special events; this could be an ideal opportunity for some behind-the-scenes work experience while also helping endangered animals!
• Share what you know on various social platforms to reach a large audience.
• Supporting sustainable tourism will also be beneficial, as you will be able to make a difference while having fun. For example, you could plant trees, raise awareness of the clouded leopard in your community, or support local wildlife sanctuaries.

 Some interesting facts on Clouded Leopard

• ·     Clouded leopards have the longest tail-to-body size ratio of any cat.
• ·     For the skull size, they have the longest canine teeth of any cat.
• ·    They are one of the few cats that can fully rotate their ankles which allows them to descend trees head first, rather than scrambling down backward.

 
International Clouded Leopard Day is an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of this incredible species and what we can do to protect it. We hope this article has inspired you to plan a celebration for International Clouded Leopard Day on August 4, 2022!