Every time an animal ends up on the never-ending list of endangered species, a little peace of our hearts break. It is just a small reminder of how the human population is negatively affecting the environment around us. But, sometimes human involvement is necessary and leads to positive outcomes.

Recently, the beautiful and majestic snow leopard was taken off of the endangered species list, where it has been since 1972. While this is a huge step in the repopulation of the snow leopards, the large cat is still considered “vulnerable” because of poaching and the destruction of their habitats.

Dr. Tom McCarthy, international expert, is the one who runs the Snow Leopard Programme and says that “To be considered ‘endangered,’ there must be fewer than 2,500 mature snow leopards and they must be experiencing a high rate of decline. Both are now considered extremely unlikely, which is the good news, but it does not mean that snow leopards are ‘safe’ or that now is a time to celebrate.”

Not everyone agrees with the change in their status, though. The Snow Leopard Trust, a group that aims to protect the species, opposes their new status and even plans to challenge their decision.

Regardless of your position, it is important to continue supporting conservation projects, not just for the snow leopards, but for endangered animals everywhere.

Source: BBC News