Week 6: Human Impact

Purpose & Objectives

To become aware of the direct and indirect affects of human actions on the ecosystem of the leopard. The leopard is the most persecuted of the big cats on the planet but it is not just the action of hunting that negatively affects these cats. Although the leopard is not an attended target of the bush meat trade, many of the leopards prey species are. The expanse of human developments can not only deplete the leopards habitat but also apply pressures which increase conflict with humans and internal social pressures among the leopard populations.

Classroom activity

• Watch Carte Blanche (a South African Current Affairs show) episode on Leopard Hunting.

Independent activity

To prepare for a debate on the Human Carnivore Conflict in the following weeks class.