World Clouded Leopard Celebration on 2025

The clouded leopard, a medium-sized feline native to the remote corners of Asia, is known for its elusive nature and incredible ability to blend with its environment. This species, which primarily inhabits tropical primary forests but can also be found in some grasslands, mangroves, and deciduous or coniferous temperate forests, is listed as 'vulnerable' on the IUCN Red List.

This elusive cat gives birth to 2-3 cubs after a gestation period of about three months. The mother weans her cubs between 11 and 14 weeks. The clouded leopard's diet is diverse, including monkeys, rodents, pangolins, squirrels, birds, and deer.

Unfortunately, the clouded leopard faces numerous threats. The reduction of forests, a primary habitat for this species, increases tensions with livestock owners, leading to the use of poisoned baits that claim countless lives of clouded leopards. In many countries, owning a clouded leopard skin is a status symbol, with the clouded leopard's pelt being the most common in the Southeast Asian black market since 1991, with the main buyers being Taiwanese.

In China, clouded leopard body parts are openly sold in some markets, and live specimens, especially cubs, are considered excellent pets and bring prestige to their owners. The bones, teeth, and claws of the clouded leopard are used in traditional Chinese medicine, considered the ideal substitute for the tiger.

Hydroelectric and road projects also put the clouded leopard's habitat at risk. The primary threat to the species, however, is the reduction of its habitat, with deforestation rates among the highest in Southeast Asia. For instance, in Thailand, nearly half of its forest cover disappeared between 1960 and 2000.

Despite these challenges, efforts are being made to protect the clouded leopard. The species has been included in Appendix I of CITES since 1975, prohibiting international trade of the animal and its parts. Hunting is prohibited in the main countries that host wild populations, such as Bangladesh, China, Nepal, India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Every August 4th is celebrated as International Clouded Leopard Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the plight of this elusive cat and efforts to conserve its habitat. The exact date and location of the International Clouded Leopard Day 2025 are not yet confirmed.

In Laos, the capture of clouded leopards is regulated, but there is no protection for this feline in Butan. The clouded leopard is the third most traded felid in South Asian markets.

Despite these challenges, there is hope. The female clouded leopard cares for the young, and with continued conservation efforts, we can help ensure that this elusive cat continues to roam the forests of Asia for generations to come.