A global day dedicated to protecting the endangered snow leopard and its unique high-mountain ecosystem in Central Asia.
Date23 October
TopicEnvironment & Sustainability
Established2024
Ways to observe this day
Learn about the snow leopard and its natural habitat in the mountains of Central Asia
Support an organization working to protect endangered species
Share information about the importance of mountain ecosystems
Raise awareness about the threats of poaching and habitat loss
On December 12, 2024, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution declaring October 23 as the International Day of the Snow Leopard, aiming to strengthen international and regional cooperation to protect this rare big cat species that inhabits the high mountain ranges of Central and South Asia and is classified as an endangered species.
The day highlights the snow leopard's importance as a key indicator of the health of mountain ecosystems that millions of people depend on for freshwater sources, while addressing the threats the species faces, including habitat loss, climate change, poaching, and conflict with local pastoral communities.
The twelve countries where snow leopards are found, ranging from Afghanistan to Mongolia and Russia, along with conservation organizations, take part in awareness events, research initiatives, and field campaigns to protect the species and its natural habitat.