Education and Outreach Volunteers, Wild Cats Series 2024

WILD CARE recently concluded 3 days in-house orientation training for Education and Outreach Volunteers, Wild Cats Series 2024. The training was held on 16-18 February, 2024 at Cultural Village, Dhanusha district. Fourteen enthusiastic individuals from diverse educational background came together to expand their knowledge and commitment to the wild cat conservation. Over the three days, the participants learnt about different wild cats, research methods and their conservation issues in Nepal. The session was particularly focused on four cat species: The Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris), Fishing cat (Prionailurus viverrinus), Jungle cat (Felis chaus) and Leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis). Apart from theoretical learnings, the participants also gained hand-on experience in camera trap installation, social survey methods and conducting school and community outreach programs. Through sessions in school and communities, we also strengthened their confidence and communication skills. As part of the volunteering assignment, the volunteers will utilize these learnings to conduct conservation education program for wild cats in their local areas. 

This marks our second year of hosting this program. The program is unique in a sense that it allows participants with little or no prior experience in wildlife domain to come, learn and step-in the field of wildlife conservation. This year’s program was financially supported by the Fishing Cat Conservation Alliance (FCCA), Panthera, Leo Foundation and Big Cat Rescue. We also express our gratitude to our local partner Mithila Wildlife Trust (MWT) and our supporters Nepal Zoological Society – Bagmati Chapter and ZSL Nepal.