For the first time ever, the International Tree Leopard Day is organised. We at Parken Zoo are of course participating to give these beautiful and unusual creatures some extra attention. This is especially needed because of the threats to the tree leopards that have contributed to the decline of the species by 30% in the last three generations. This is due to deforestation and other human activities that are destroying the animals' habitats. The populations that remain today are often isolated from each other, making genetic exchange difficult and further threatening their survival.

So, what can you do to help them? Above all, you should avoid or preferably completely exclude buying giant prawns and products containing palm oil. Avoiding products made from rainforest trees like teak and mahogany also helps. Together, consumers have a lot of power over what is sold in shops. You can find more tips here here.

What is Parken Zoo doing for the species? Firstly, we provide information about the threats and what can be done to help them and other animals. Parken Zoo also participates in the European conservation breeding programme for tree leopards and cooperates with other keepers of tree leopards. On 25 July this year, two of the cubs that had been bred with us moved. They were two sisters born in 2014 who have now travelled to Wroclaw Zoo in Poland to be part of the breeding project.

If you want to read more about leopards, you can find it here here.