Timeline Photos

MEET OUR NATIVE WILDLIFE: SINGAPORE�S MINI �LEOPARDS�

As a result of urban development, leopards and many other big mammals have gone extinct in Singapore.

However, Singapore is still the home to the elusive, nocturnal leopard cat: the last reminding wild cat here. Their spotted fur helps them to blend into the shadows of their surroundings, and their unique spotted coat can be used as a way to identify individuals.

But only a few leopard cats remain in Singapore, due to habitat loss, and they are considered critically endangered here. The highest numbers are found on Pulau Tekong – a 23.5 sqkm island off Singapore – where it is estimated that there are about 21 adult leopard cats thriving. It is said that Pulau Tekong has one of the world�s highest population density of leopard cats � 89 wild cats per 100 sqkm, compared with about nine to 16 per 100 sqkm in countries such as Malaysia and in Borneo.

Singapore�s leopard cats need their remaining habitat to be protected if they are to survive. And throughout Asia, leopard cats need protection too. Sadly, these beautiful animals often fall victim to the wildlife trade. The leopard cat is one of the most commonly traded cat species. Parts traded include whole skins, skin parts, skulls and paws. They are also captured and sold as pets.

You can help to protect leopard cats by never buying products made from their skins or other body parts, and by reporting anyone who is illegally selling leopard cats as pets � you can report this crime to the police, the AVA, or to the ACRES Animal Crime Investigation Unit (ACIU)at acrescrime@gmail.com

#SingaporeWildlife

Source: https://www.facebook.com/ACRESasia/photos/a.223077136522.136..

Tweet

ACRES

ACRES (Animal Concerns Research & Education Society) is a pioneering Singapore-based charity and Institution of Public Character, founded by Singaporeans in 2001 with the aim of promoting animal welfare.

ACRES has six focus areas: Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, Wildlife Crime Investigation, Zoo Animal Welfare, Humane Education, Community Outreach and Promoting Cruelty-Free Living.

More Articles   |   Website