+44 (0) 7508 801 099
info@wildlifevetsinternational.org

Russian spots AND stripes

WVI is to integrate support for the Amur tiger, the world’s largest big cat, in its current Amur leopard programme. The latest report from WVI vet Dr John Lewis highlights the need to expand our Amur leopard activity to include Amur tigers, which not only share both existing and planned future leopard habitat – but also similar disease risks:

Click to enlarge image

“Over the past few years it has become apparent that there is considerable overlap in the veterinary support requirements for the conservation of the Amur leopard and Amur tiger in the Russian Far East. Although there are differences in degree, the infectious disease risks faced by both cats have been demonstrated to be similar (see Goodrich, Lewis et al 2012). Necessary local disease diagnostic requirements are almost identical and the training requirements of Russian biologists and vets dealing with either cat are largely the same. Many of the staff concerned are involved with both cats anyway. Whilst it remains the case that a reintroduction programme is only necessary for the Amur leopard, tigers are present in both the existing habitat of the leopard and in the proposed area for reintroduction. As a result, veterinary concerns for the two cats overlap even within a programme designed for just one.

“In response to this somewhat predictable situation and to direct requests from conservation organisations in the region, WVI has extended its activities in Russia to providing support for both species in a far more integrated manner. Our approach in Russia into the future will therefore be balanced in supporting efforts to conserve both these rare cats equally. This is a logical and exciting development for WVI and is only possible because of the trust built up over the past 6 years between us and all the many organisations and people in the Russian Far East concerned with the conservation of their large cats. To be effective and make a real difference, a long term involvement and commitment is essential – and that is exactly what WVI will do given continued support from our sponsors.” Dr John Lewis, Report on Amur Leopard Project 2012.