DUBAI: Catmosphere, an independent US-based nonprofit foundation, is set to host its inaugural global campaign to raise awareness about the endangered lives of big cats and their ecosystems.
The campaign, called Catwalk, is a seven-kilometer outdoor walk that will take place on Nov. 6, with big cat lovers being invited to join from anywhere around the world. Those who sign up to take part can do so individually, in groups or as part of a company-organized event. There is also the option of signing up for a 700-meter walk for children and families.
Registration opens on Sept. 18 at catmosphere.org.
The term big cat refers to any of the seven living members of the genus Panthera, including cheetahs, jaguars, leopards, lions, pumas, snow leopards and tigers, as well as the Arabian leopard.
Participants will get to choose which big cat they are running for, and this will be their “cat crew.”
The group that has the most people walking on its behalf will be crowned the Winning Cat, which will be announced on Nov. 7.
Catmosphere aims to magnify the efforts of Panthera, an organization devoted entirely to conservation of 40 species of wild cats.
Catmosphere’s founder is Princess Reema bint Bandar Al-Saud, the Saudi ambassador to the US, who is on a mission to campaign for the importance of safeguarding the lives and wellbeing of big cats.
In an interview with Arab News, Princess Reema said: “The future of big cats is under threat, primarily due to diminishing habitats.
“Accordingly, Catwalk is striving for a healthy habitat for big cats, and healthy habitats start at home,” she added. “A healthy and active lifestyle helps us to respect our own bodies, and engaging with our environments gives us an appreciation for the fundamental role it plays in all of life. Catwalk invites us all to ignite physical movement locally, and in doing so, trigger the big cat conservation movement globally.”
