Did you know that over 40,000 species worldwide are classified as endangered? It’s a serious problem, but you can help!
Today we’re going to take a look at two endangered species and ways that we can help their populations. Of course, we also have some great crochet patterns rounded up so that you can crochet your own leopard.
They make a great gift and they’re also a wonderful way to start a conversation with others about endangered animals.
Endangered Animal: Leopard
There are two different leopards on the World Wildlife Fund endangered species list: the Amur Leopard, which is critically endangered, and the endangered Snow Leopard.
The Amur Leopard
The Amur leopard (also known as the Far East leopard, Manchurian leopard, or Korean leopard) is a solitary animal that lives in the forests of Far East Russia and Northern China.
They are a rare species on the brink of extinction that are sadly poached for their beautiful fur. Their prey species are also hunted, leaving them without enough food. The Amur leopard cat population did recently double in size but there are still less than 100 of these animals left.
One way that you can help is to virtually adopt a leopard. You can also learn about the Amur Leopard and Tiger Alliance, a coalition of 15 NGOs that are working together to save the region’s habitat.
The Snow Leopard
The Snow Leopard is a magnificent creature found in about a dozen countries including India, China, Afghanistan, and Russia.
It is an endangered animal that has no predator other than humans; people destroy them in retaliation for the cats killing their farm animals. They are also threatened by habitat loss and climate change.
Defenders of Wildlife has additional information on what you can do to help the leopards.
You might also be interested in the work of Big Cat Rescue, “one of the largest accredited sanctuaries in the world dedicated to abused and abandoned big cats”, which also does work around the world, in addition to the work that the Wildlife Conservation Society does for big cats including the snow leopard.
Leopard Crochet Patterns
There are a couple of great types of leopard crochet patterns out there for those of you who want to raise awareness through crochet.
Stuffed animals designed to look like leopards make a great gift or display item and can get the conversation started with your loved ones about these species.
Wearables made with leopard print are common, but crochet versions of this print pattern are pretty unique!
Leopard print crochet can be a great conversation starter for letting other people know why it’s better to use this faux version than to tolerate the poaching of leopards for their fur!
Leopard Crochet Patterns
This crochet leopard is simply adorable! He's constructed like a teddy bear or baby doll and would make a perfect toy for a young child or a gift for a baby shower. This detailed pattern is easy to follow, even for beginners, so why not give it a try?
This realistic leopard crochet pattern is perfect for an experienced or advanced crocheter who is searching for a challenge. The final result is a beautiful leopard that can be placed on display in your home or given to an older child who appreciates realistic animals. This leopard is sure to be a conversation starter, so don't forget to mention the threats facing real leopards to spread awareness!
Rep this endangered species with your own set of crochet leopard print accessories! This pattern bundle includes patterns for a chunky beanie, a worsted-weight beanie, a cowl, a headband, and mittens. These patterns use tapestry crochet and are worked from a graph, so they're best suited for intermediate-level crocheters who are familiar with these techniques.
This super cute amigurumi leopard has a moveable tail and head, making it tons of fun to pose and play with. Children will love moving and playing with their own crochet leopard, or you could arrange it into a pose of your liking to display on a shelf. Perfect for nursery decor!
This floppy-limbed crochet leopard is so cute and cuddly! He's perfectly suited for cuddling with at naptime or bedtime. This leopard pattern is ideal for making a child's lovey; use it for a birthday gift, baby shower gift, or for your own little ones.
Lennard the Leopard looks like he just leaped out of the screen of your favorite cartoon. He's ready to sit on your shelf or join in your kiddos' play! This pattern uses a few advanced techniques and is best for intermediate crocheters or beginners who are ready to challenge themselves.
Add a little leopard flair to your home decor with this plant pot cover! This cover is designed to fit a 4" to 6" plant pot and can be adapted to fit any size you'd like. The pattern includes a graph and written instructions, so you can use whichever you're more comfortable with.
This leopard baby rattle is the perfect unique baby shower gift. Little ones will love chewing on and admiring the soft, spotted leopard. This pattern is suitable for beginners, so don't hesitate to give it a try!
Wow, these patterns are great! So varied and imaginative. Thanks for sharing Kathryn!