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.
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View All News
CLIMATE CONFLICT: Rare Footage Captured of Jaguar Killing Ocelot at Waterhole
In what may be a sign of climate-change-induced conflict, researchers have captured rare photographic evidence of a jaguar killing another predatory wild cat at an isolated waterhole in Guatemala.
Read the storyMEOW MIX: Study Shows How to Re-Wild Big, Juicy Prey Animals for Wild Tigers
Read the storyJaguar North America Teams up With WCS to Raise Awareness for International Jaguar Day
International Jaguar Day, marked each year on November 29, recognizes the magnificence of the jaguar and the need to protect it from extinction. Today, Jaguar North America, LLC announced its efforts to help raise awareness for the Wildlife...
Read the storyWe Stand for Wildlife
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