World Lion Day shines spotlight on endangered species

Every August 10, World Lion Day is a global celebration dedicated to saving and commemorating one of the planet’s most iconic and beautiful creatures.

Lions were previously common throughout Africa, Asia, and Europe, but their populations have plummeted owing to habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching.

In truth, the African lion population has declined by about 43% in the last two decades, and Asiatic lions are severely endangered, with less than 600 animals left in the wild.

History

World Lion Day was started in 2013 by Dereck and Beverly Joubert of Big Cat Rescue, the world’s biggest recognised lion sanctuary. The Jouberts, a husband and wife team, realised the need to raise awareness about diminishing lion numbers and the risks they face in the wild. In 2009, they approached “National Geographic” and created a collaboration to establish the Big Cat Initiative.

More from World

Nepal's new PM pays homage to people died during the Gen Z protest in her first national address This Week in Explainers: How recovering from Gen-Z protests is a Himalayan task for Nepal

Significance of World Lion Day

World Lion Day was founded to raise awareness about the predicament of lions and support their protection, and it has since become an important forum for campaigning and education on the conservation of these wonderful beasts.

World Lion Day celebrates lions’ distinctive features via many types of art, photography, and cultural activities. Many organisations, wildlife conservation groups, and individuals take part in activities and campaigns, or utilise the day to generate donations for lion conservation programs, anti-poaching operations, habitat protection, and research initiatives. Workshops, seminars, webinars, and public speeches are routinely held to educate people about lions, their behaviour, the problems they face, and conservation methods.