Saving the Big Cats Is the 'First Real Love' of Investor Thomas Kaplan

The speaker discusses their deep passion for wildlife conservation, particularly big cats, which began in childhood. They founded Panthera, a global organization dedicated to conserving big cats and their habitats. The main threats to these animals include human encroachment and habitat loss. The speaker emphasizes the importance of philanthropy in conservation efforts, highlighting their personal contributions to ensuring certain species' survival.

What inspired the speaker to create Panthera?

• A love for painting

• A childhood dream

• A desire to travel

• A fascination with marine life

What is a major threat to the survival of big cats?

• Lack of water

• Climate change

• Human encroachment

• Overpopulation of prey

How much has the lion population decreased over the last century?

• 50%

• 70%

• 90%

• 30%

What percentage of global philanthropy is dedicated to environmental causes?

• 15%

• 2-3%

• 5%

• 10%

What gives the speaker the greatest satisfaction in their conservation efforts?

• Raising awareness about global warming

• Receiving awards for their work

• Knowing certain species will survive

• Traveling to different countries