Every year, people around the world celebrate World Lion Day on August 10. Big Cat Rescue started observing this day due to the decline of lions worldwide. Lion species are becoming extinct worldwide due to poaching and illegal hunting. So making people aware about lion conservation is the main objective of celebrating this day. India is the only country in the world where the Asiatic lion is found. In 2015, the number of lions in India was 525, which increased to 675 in 2020.
Jouberts, in collaboration with National Geographic, launched the Big Cat Initiative (BCI) in 2009. In 2013, the efforts of both Jouberts National Geographic and the Big Cat Initiative were combined, with the goal of protecting lion populations in the wild. The world’s largest recognized sanctuary for lions was established by Big Cat Rescue in 2013. It was co-founded by Derek and Beverley Joubert, who felt it was urgent because of the decline in lion numbers and threats to their natural habitat.
World Lion Day is observed to raise awareness about the conservation of lion habitats. The day helps raise awareness of the threats facing lions, including habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. World Lion Day highlights the importance of lions in our ecosystem, hence the need to take urgent action to ensure their survival. The day unites individuals and communities to ensure a bright future for lions.
