Photo credit: Artush

Partner Organisation: Leopards Beyond Borders

Location: Iraq and Kurdistan

Are rewilding projects possible when target species roam across international borders troubled by human conflict? This question is one that our newest Alliance Partner, Leopards Beyond Borders, is determined to answer and make a sincere ‘yes’ a reality.

Based in Northern Iraq, Leopards Beyond Borders are committed to rewilding across the Middle East through the return of apex predators like the Persian leopard. Such large predators have vast territories, often located in borderlands where human population densities are lowest. Rewilding these landscapes therefore requires cooperation that must transcend political boundaries and conflicts.

Leopards Beyond Borders

The first female leopard recorded in Iraq. There are an estimated 20 to 25 Persian leopards in Iraqi Kurdistan. Raza has captured 12 on her camera traps. Photo credit: Leopards Beyond Borders 

Founded by Hana Raza in 2022, Leopards Beyond Borders is at the beginning of their rewilding journey. While leopard reintroductions are not yet a reality, Leopards Beyond Borders are working to create vital safe corridors for the 20-25 leopards already present in Iraq through anti-poaching measures, foster coexistence with human communities and advocate for the creation of transboundary protected areas between Iraq and Iran. This groundwork of people-involvement and consent is fundamental to make their vision a reality.

Have a look at their recent sightings.

We are honoured to support Leopards Beyond Borders to ensure a future where apex predators can roam freely across borders, restoring the ecological integrity of the Middle East.

Founder portrait Leopards beyond borders

Hana Raza started searching for leopards in Iraqi Kurdistan back in 2009. She captured her first image of a leopard on a camera trap in 2011. Photo credit: Karen Allen

We hope that you enjoyed getting to know about this wonderful Alliance Partner! 

Here is their website for a deeper dive: Leopards Beyond Borders.

If you are a rewilding organisation, and would like to join our network of wonderful people restoring entire ecosystems around the world, then please get in touch with our team.