Big cats of Iran and their status
Saeed Azimi
Staff writer
Iran, located in the Middle East, is a country known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. With its diverse landscapes ranging from deserts to mountains, Iran is also home to some of the world’s most fascinating wildlife including the majestic Persian cat.
The geography of Iran is unique and varied. The country is largely dominated by two major mountain ranges, the Zagros Mountains in the west and the Alborz Mountains in the north. These mountains not only provide breathtaking scenery but also play a vital role in shaping the country’s climate and ecosystems.
The Zagros Mountains are home to some of Iran’s most important rivers, including the Karun and Karkheh. These rivers support a variety of wildlife including the Persian leopard, one of the largest and most elusive big cats in the world. The Persian leopard is an endangered species, with only a few hundred individuals remaining in the wild. Despite conservation efforts, habitat loss and poaching continue to threaten their survival.