Protecting the Wild Future of Big Cats

Great.com interviews Felidae Fund About Protecting the Wild Future of Big Cats

Danielle Ribeiro from Great.com interviewed the Felidae Fund as part of their 'Great.com Talks With...' podcast.

This series is an antidote to negative news stories that aims to shed light on organizations and experts whose work is making a positive impact on the world. As wild cat populations face mounting threats from human encroachment, we at Felidae Fund are stepping up to address these challenges through a blend of scientific research, community involvement, and targeted conservation projects. Our mission is to protect the habitats and ecosystems that wild cats depend on while addressing the root causes of human-wildlife conflict.

Today, Zara McDonald, the Founder, President, Researcher, and Biologist at Felidae Fund, talked with Great.com about how our organization recognizes that safeguarding wild cats requires a multifaceted approach. Through innovative programs, we aim to bridge the gap between rigorous scientific research and practical, real-world conservation strategies.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that species such as mountain lions, jaguars, and leopards continue to thrive in the future.At the heart of our work is a commitment to data-driven, impactful research. We conduct comprehensive field studies to monitor wild cat populations and track their movements, allowing us to gain valuable insights into their behaviors and ecological needs. This research forms the backbone of our conservation efforts, ensuring our strategies are not only effective but also sustainable.

Our research isn’t just about gathering data; it's about solving real-world conservation challenges. One of our flagship initiatives is the creation of wildlife corridors—vital passageways that allow wild cats to safely navigate between fragmented habitats. By identifying these critical pathways, we help preserve essential routes for migration, hunting, and breeding, while reducing human-wildlife conflict.We know that successful conservation is a collaborative effort, which is why we work closely with local communities who share their environments with wild cats.

Our education and outreach programs focus on dispelling fears and misconceptions, teaching people how they can peacefully coexist with these majestic animals without compromising safety.Additionally, we partner with ranchers, farmers, and local governments to advocate for non-lethal methods of predator control. In regions where human-wildlife conflicts are common, these collaborations are essential.

By promoting sustainable, wildlife-friendly solutions, we not only protect wild cats but also foster stronger, more resilient ecosystems that benefit both humans and animals alike.

Great.com is an organization aimed at solving the world’s most dire problem — global climate change. Starting in New Jersey, their mission is to take money from an otherwise harmful and greedy industry (online casinos) and move it towards a positive and good cause (solving the climate crisis). In addition to directly donating 100% of the revenue they earn in the casino industry, they also launch and manage fundraising campaigns to persuade casino entrepreneurs to donate. So far, they’ve generated over $2 million to climate research through their own donations and proceeds from their fundraising initiatives. 

As big cat populations continue to face relentless threats, Felidae Fund is stepping up to preserve their habitats and ensure their survival. Find out how they are bridging science and conservation to safeguard these majestic creatures. Listen here or find us on your favorite podcast app. Want to support Felidae Fund? https://felidaefund.org/

Find the episode on Great.com: great.com/great-talks-with/felidae-fund