Big Cats
Around the world, big cats are among the most recognized and admired animals, at the top of the food chain. Yet all seven species are listed as Threatened or Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List, with the tiger categorized as Endangered. WCS is in a unique position to help—we work to conserve all seven.
Why WCS?
44 landscapes
We have long-term programs on the ground at 44 landscapes with big cats, covering many of the most important populations. These span 32 countries and three continents.
400 wild tigers
In early 2015, WCS’s Dr. Ullas Karanth and his team set up camera traps at around 700 locations in southwestern India. The images taken are part of a continuing effort to monitor tigers in the Malenad landscape, which is home to roughly 400 wild tigers, the largest population in the world.
On Our Strategies
Prevent Illegal Killing
With some exceptions, big cats are legally protected from hunting in their home countries. We work with partners to enforce laws through the training of rangers, intelligence networks, and more.

Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary
In India, home to one of the world's largest human populations, the wide-ranging tiger can find itself in conflict with people. From 2001–02, WCS helped in the voluntary resettlement of 457 households from the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary, to reduce the probability of such events. We were vigilant in helping secure a smooth, fair transition for all. The effort remains a model for others undertaking a similar process.
Related News
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January 27, 2023
STUDY: WCS Investigations of Online Trade in Jaguar Parts Show Threat is Widespread
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January 31, 2022
Happy Year of the Tiger: Tigers Are Beating the Odds Against Extinction
WCS released a statement by Dale Miquelle, WCS Tiger Program coordinator and director of WCS’s Russia Program, upon the commencement of the Lunar Year of the Tiger.
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January 12, 2022
“Talkative” Jaguar Lounges in Front of Hidden Camera (English and Spanish News Releases)
Conservationists with the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Guatemala Program released video footage of a wild jaguar (Panthera onca) who clearly has a gift for the gab.
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View All News
STUDY: WCS Investigations of Online Trade in Jaguar Parts Show Threat is Widespread
Read the storyHappy Year of the Tiger: Tigers Are Beating the Odds Against Extinction
WCS released a statement by Dale Miquelle, WCS Tiger Program coordinator and director of WCS’s Russia Program, upon the commencement of the Lunar Year of the Tiger.
Read the story“Talkative” Jaguar Lounges in Front of Hidden Camera (English and Spanish News Releases)
Conservationists with the Wildlife Conservation Society’s (WCS) Guatemala Program released video footage of a wild jaguar (Panthera onca) who clearly has a gift for the gab.
Read the storySign Up for Email Updates
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