Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Environment Authority (EA), commemorated the "International Day of the Arabian Leopard" on February 10.
This observance aims to enhance public understanding of the significance of the Arabian Leopard, which is classified as a "critically endangered species" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The initiative also focuses on bolstering efforts to safeguard biodiversity and wildlife.
Dr. Mohammed bin Mahad Al Maashani from the Environment Authority noted that the Arabian leopard project in the Dhofar Governorate has made significant strides in conservation, as evidenced by recent leopard births in the wild.
These new births provide optimism for the continued existence of the Arabian leopard in its natural habitat and play a crucial role in preserving the ecological balance of the region, he stated.
Al Maashani further explained that the Arabian leopard, scientifically referred to as "Panthera pardus nimr," is among the smallest and rarest leopard species. Research indicates that this species faces challenges such as habitat loss, reduced prey availability, and threats from illegal trafficking. He emphasized that Oman is one of the few remaining habitats for this species, and the Environment Authority is actively monitoring the Arabian leopard across various locations in the Dhofar Mountains.
The Environment Authority is dedicated to gathering data and analyzing environmental indicators to enhance the living conditions for the Arabian leopard, he added.
