Big Cat Conservation Challenges and Solutions

The Google+ Hangout celebrates Big Cat Week on Nat Geo Wild, featuring experts discussing the Big Cats Initiative (BCI) by National Geographic. Participants share their journeys to becoming conservationists, the challenges faced in big cat conservation, and the role of technology in these efforts. The discussion highlights the importance of community involvement, education, and future goals for conservation. The session concludes with inspiring stories and a call to action for continued support and awareness.

What is the primary goal of the Big Cats Initiative?

• To increase tourism in big cat habitats

• To support conservation and protection of big cat populations worldwide

• To train big cats for entertainment purposes

• To relocate big cats to urban areas

Which big cat expert mentioned a childhood dream of working with lions?

• Boone Smith

• Shivani Bala

• Derek Zubair

• Chrissy Current

What is a major threat to big cats in Africa mentioned in the discussion?

• Retaliatory killings due to livestock loss

• Climate change

• Lack of food resources

• Overpopulation of big cats

Which big cat is mentioned as being particularly persecuted due to its proximity to human settlements?

• Cheetahs

• Leopards

• Tigers

• Lions

How are text messages used in big cat conservation in Kenya?

• To send warnings about poachers

• To report lion sightings and activities to conservationists

• To track the movement of big cats

• To alert tourists about big cat sightings

What technology is used to monitor tigers and leopards in India?

• Radio collars

• Satellite imagery

• Drones

• Camera traps

What is one of the main reasons for the decline in tiger populations in India?

• Poaching for commercial markets

• Lack of prey

• Natural disasters

• Disease outbreaks

What is a significant challenge in using drones for monitoring big cats in India?

• Interference with wildlife

• Lack of trained personnel

• Dense forest cover

• High cost of drones

What is a key focus for the future of big cat conservation?

• Increasing hunting licenses

• Developing urban habitats for big cats

• Reducing the number of conservation programs

• Involving the next generation in conservation efforts

What role do local communities play in big cat conservation according to the experts?

• They are the primary threat to big cats

• They are crucial for the success of conservation efforts

• They have no impact on conservation

• They only provide financial support