Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy Conference Concludes with Urgent Action Plans for Endangered Species

Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: The Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy Conference, organized by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) at Sharjah Safari, concluded yesterday after three days of intensive discussions focused on the future of the critically endangered Arabian Leopard. The event, held in partnership with the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group, gathered leading experts, researchers, and policymakers dedicated to enhancing conservation efforts for this iconic species across the Arabian Peninsula.

The conference featured a series of in-depth discussions aimed at addressing the urgent challenges faced by the Arabian Leopard and formulating a collaborative framework to ensure its survival. Participants reviewed the updated Arabian Leopard Conservation Strategy, originally developed in 2010, highlighting the current status of the species in range states, including the UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Yemen.

Hana Saif Al Suwaidi, Chairperson of the EPAA, emphasized the critical condition of the Arabian Leopard population, noting that it has become more precarious since 2010. She called for immediate and comprehensive action to protect and preserve this unique species. Significant leopard populations exist in Oman’s Dhofar region and potentially in Yemen, though confirmation of their status remains uncertain.

The discussions brought to light pressing genetic threats to the Arabian Leopard, particularly the risks of inbreeding due to small and isolated populations. It was concluded that protecting the remaining wild populations is not enough; a broader approach that includes enhancing these populations and reintroducing leopards into their natural habitats is necessary.

The conference also underscored the importance of a robust breeding program, which is crucial for maintaining the genetic diversity of the Arabian Leopard. The program aims to safeguard the species outside its natural environment while laying the groundwork for future reintroduction efforts.

Key outcomes of the conference included:

• Immediate Priorities: Sharjah will lead as the initiator and coordinator of an international joint breeding program involving all range states.
• Community Engagement: Emphasis was placed on involving local communities in conservation efforts and improving habitats that have been degraded by overgrazing.
• Reintroduction Focus: Strategies will prioritize returning the Arabian Leopard to its historical range, enhancing the natural prey population to support leopards and reduce human-wildlife conflicts.

Yemen was identified as a potential hotspot for the largest wild leopard populations, requiring national surveys and intensified research to combat poaching. Oman will continue to share its expertise while expanding the leopard’s range, and Saudi Arabia will prepare suitable habitats for effective reintroduction projects.

The conference concluded with a shared commitment to urgent, collaborative action aimed at ensuring the sustainable presence of the Arabian Leopard in the wild, emphasizing that the time to act is now.