Arabian Leopard Conference In Sharjah Adopts Updated Conservation Strategy To Ensure Species Survival

The Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy Conference recently concluded at Sharjah Safari. Organised by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA), it spanned three days. The event, in collaboration with the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group, gathered experts, researchers, and policymakers. They focused on addressing challenges facing the critically endangered Arabian Leopard and developing a collaborative framework for its survival.

Participants engaged in detailed discussions to enhance conservation strategies across the Arabian Peninsula, especially in range states. They evaluated current programmes aimed at conserving and reintroducing this unique species into its natural habitats. The conference resulted in adopting an updated Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy, initially developed in 2010.

The revised strategy aims to secure the species' future and provide practical solutions for its sustainable presence in the wild. Participants reviewed the status of the Arabian Leopard in range states like the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen. They identified priority areas for regional cooperation and joint action while agreeing on key activities to be implemented.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of EPAA in Sharjah, praised ongoing efforts to save this critically endangered species. She highlighted that the status of the Arabian Leopard is now more critical than it was in 2010, necessitating urgent action. Significant populations exist in Oman’s Dhofar region and possibly Yemen, though confirmation is pending.

The discussions also highlighted growing genetic threats to the Arabian Leopard due to small and isolated populations leading to inbreeding. The conference concluded that protecting existing wild populations alone is insufficient. A broader approach is needed, including enhancing populations and reintroducing leopards into their natural habitat.

Al Suwaidi emphasised strengthening the breeding programme for maintaining genetic diversity. This programme aims to safeguard the species outside its natural environment and lay a foundation for future reintroduction into the wild.

Reintroduction Efforts

The final statement stressed returning the Arabian Leopard to its historical range through key actions. These include engaging local communities in targeted areas, improving degraded habitats affected by overgrazing, and increasing natural prey populations to support leopard sustenance while reducing human-wildlife conflicts.

The conference identified short-term priorities for range states with Sharjah taking a lead role as initiator and coordinator of the breeding programme. All range states will collaborate on establishing an international joint breeding programme.

Regional Collaboration

Yemen requires national surveys and intensified research efforts to combat poaching and protect leopards as it is considered a potential hotspot for large wild populations. Oman will continue expanding its stable population's range while sharing expertise with other states.

Saudi Arabia holds most of the historical range of Arabian leopards. It will focus on preparing suitable habitats and building capacities for effective reintroduction projects.

This conference underscored a collective commitment towards preserving this iconic species through regional cooperation and strategic planning.

With inputs from WAM