Save Spots with Synthetic Furs!

The best leopard-print cape is one no leopard died for. As many as 800 leopards are killed each year in southern Africa for their furs, and fewer than 5,000 remain in South Africa. Many furs become ceremonial regalia for members of the Nazareth Baptist Church eBuhleni, known as the Shembe Church, whose followers revere leopards. At one time, as many as 15,000 leopard furs were worn at the church's gatherings.

Panthera, in partnership with the leadership of the Shembe Church, initiated Furs for Life in 2013. Working with community members and designers, we created Heritage Furs: high-quality, affordable synthetic capes, or amambatha. More than 18,500 capes have already been distributed to the Shembe Church with support from Peace Parks Foundation and Cartier.

Thanks to Shembe leaders' pioneering efforts, synthetic furs are now widely accepted. Panthera's research indicates that the project has significantly reduced demand for and acquisition of authentic furs, potentially preventing hundreds of leopard deaths each year.

Add your name to show your support for Panthera's work to protect Africa's leopards and other wild cats. Signing the petition adds you to Panthera's email list so you can follow our progress, receive our newsletter and campaign updates, and learn how you can help protect wild cats through our Furs For Life program.