Latest news with #Bakari
IOL News
24-04-2025
- General
- IOL News
Celebrating International Leopard Day: a call to protect South Africa's majestic leopards
A leopard in the Kruger National Park. Image: Ian Landsberg/Independent Newspapers. The beauty and majesty of leopards (Panthera pardus) are not just a captivating sight; they also play a crucial role in the ecological balance of their habitats. However, as the world marks International Leopard Day on 3 May, conservationists urged a collective commitment to combat the threats leopards face, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. In South Africa, leopards are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their population steadily decreasing. Once roaming vast areas, their habitats have been diminished to a mere 25% of their historical range. The alarming decline of these iconic apex predators signals an urgent need for concerted efforts to protect them both in the wild and in captivity. Four Paws South Africa and Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary have joined forces to highlight the significance of safeguarding leopards through their global initiative. 'South Africa can and must set a precedent for global wildlife protection efforts by ensuring that all big cats are safeguarded for future generations,' said Fiona Miles, Director at Four Paws. 'By developing world-class standards and policies, South Africa can lead global advocacy for stricter protections for big cats, shifting the mindset from financial value to the intrinsic value these sentient animals have.' At Lionsrock, the sanctuary provides a haven for rescued leopards, allowing them to live in environments that cater to their natural behaviours. Among the residents, Bakari, Mike, and Tulani have experienced the tragic realities of captivity. Bakari's journey to Lionsrock reveals a troubling past; he was initially kept as a photo attraction in a German zoo and later faced distress in confined spaces alongside lions—animals that are natural enemies of leopards. However, with love and care, Bakari has found solace and safety in his new habitat. Mike and Tulani, known as the sanctuary's 'resident couple,' have also overcome powerful adversities. Tulani was raised in a safari farm while Mike was captured in a live trap. Both leopards now thrive in the care of dedicated staff who provide them with enrichment and a peaceful existence. Sanctuary Manager Hildegard Pirker passionately comments, 'Leopards are incredibly adaptable and intelligent animals, but their survival is constantly challenged by human activities. We provide them with the space and care they need to live dignified lives.' As part of their mission, Four Paws advocates for an end to the exploitation and commercial trade of big cats. International Leopard Day represents a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the ethical treatment of wildlife. It is a call for society as a whole to recognise the significance of legal protections surrounding both wild leopards and those in captivity. Pivotal to this awareness is understanding the differences between leopards and their counterparts, jaguars, which are often confused. While leopards can be found across Africa and parts of Asia, jaguars inhabit the Americas. Their unique rosette patterns further distinguish them: leopards have smaller, more densely packed spots compared to the larger rosettes with central spots that characterise jaguars. Acknowledging these differences is pertinent in providing specific care for each species and catering to their welfare needs. As we celebrate International Leopard Day, let us commit to advocating ethical wildlife practices and stricter laws to protect these magnificent creatures. The plight of leopards is a shared responsibility, and through initiatives led by organisations like FOUR PAWS South Africa and sanctuaries like Lionsrock, we can ensure that future generations will share the planet with these extraordinary animals.
Morocco World
20-03-2025
- Sport
- Morocco World
Comoros vs Mali: When, How to Watch, and Score Prediction
Mali faces Comoros today in a must-win contest after they have achieved only one win in their last four games in the World Cup qualifiers. They rank fourth on the table with four points behind Comoros. A loss could end their hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup. The game was set to take place in Comoros, but their stadium did not meet FIFA standards. It will instead be played in Morocco at the Stade Municipal de Berkane. Kick-off is at 9 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT) and fans can catch the action live on L'Équipe, ORTM, and ORTC. Mali must do better than last time. They failed to win in their last three games. Their only win was against Chad back in November 2023. They could not beat Madagascar, even with an extra man from the 16th minute of the game. The pressure is mounting on them – a win would keep them in the race. Comoros started their World Cup qualifiers quite strongly beating Central African Republic 4-2 and Ghana 1-0. They sit second with nine points – one point adrift Madagascar with one game in hand. View this post on Instagram A post shared by FFC 🇰🇲 (@fedcomfootball) But their form dipped in 2024 when they lost 2-1 away to Madagascar. They also lost to Malawi in the AFCON playoffs. Predicted Lineups Comoros: Ben Boina; Bakari, Omari, Zahary, Abdullah; Youssouf; Bourhane; Vita, Lutin, Selemani; Maolida Mali: Diarra; Konaté, Fofana, Niakaté, Dante; Dieng, Bissouma; Doumbia, Koné, Dorgeles, Touré. Predicted Score Comoros have scored a goal or more in their last five games, and both teams have gone unbeaten in the last seven games. So this could be a low-scoring, tight contest. Comoros 1-1 Mali & Under 2.5 goals. Tags: BerkaneComorosmaliWorld Cup Qualifiers
