2 Persian leopards released into wild in Russia's Caucasus
Two Persian Leopards were released into the wild in Russia's Caucasus region of North Ossetia on Friday in an attempt to reintroduce the endangered species in their historical habitat.
According to the WWF, the leopards - a female named Volna and a male named Elbrus - became the latest big cats to be released in the region where leopards are considered to be the national symbol.
The Persian leopards were believed extinct in North Ossetia but recent CCTV camera footage from the local hydroelectric power stations showed leopards that appeared to have crossed from the South Caucasus.
The animals were brought by a helicopter from the Persian Leopard Breeding and Rehabilitation Centre in Sochi National Park where both were born two years ago from two different couples of leopards. They are part of an ongoing project conducted by WWF and supported by various international organisations and private donors which aims to recover previous populations and natural corridors which the leopard traversed between Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Iran, and even Turkmenistan.
According to the scientists, the leopards were prepared for independent life in the wild from birth and had almost no contact with humans.
They were released in the Alaniya National park near the village of Dzinaga and local residents were warned in advance not to visit certain areas as the animals need time to adapt for their new habitat.
Both Volna and Elbrus are equipped with satellite tracking collars which will allow the scientists to monitor their movements.
(Source: Reuters)
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