I had the honor of presenting at the second National Iranian Cheetah Day conference in Jajarm County, where I shared the latest findings and challenges of our research on the Asiatic Cheetah, a critically endangered species that lives only in Iran. The conference which was hosted by local communities of Asiatic Cheetah habitat, was a great opportunity to exchange ideas and experiences with other environmental activists, officials, experts, and enthusiasts who are passionate about protecting this unique and magnificent animal. I learned a lot from the discussions and feedback, and I was inspired by the dedication and enthusiasm of everyone involved.
One of the main messages that I wanted to convey in my presentation was the importance of sharing conservation outcomes, obstacles, and success stories with all stakeholders and among local communities. The Asiatic Cheetah faces many threats, such as habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and climate change. To address these challenges, we need to work together with the government, researchers, rangers, farmers, herders, NGOs, media, and the public. We need to raise awareness and educate people about the value and beauty of this species, as well as the benefits of coexisting with it. We need to create incentives and opportunities for local people to participate in conservation efforts and benefit from them. We need to celebrate and appreciate the achievements and efforts of those who are working hard to protect this species.
I believe that by sharing our knowledge, experiences, and stories with each other, we can create a stronger and more effective network of conservationists who can make a difference for the Asiatic Cheetah. I hope that this conference will be a catalyst for more collaboration and communication among all those who care about this species. I also hope that it will inspire more people to join us in our mission to save the Asiatic Cheetah from extinction.
Together, we can make a difference! 🐆
