Many people fear predators, especially big cats such as the lion, cheetah, and leopard.
We are often taught to fear carnivores without understanding their unique behaviors, special adaptations, and essential roles in the maintenance of healthy ecosystems. Our attitudes and misconceptions about these species have led to their endangerment because many people deal with their fear by eliminating predators. Attitudes toward predators must be changed if we hope to save endangered species such as the cheetah. By learning the reasons why species are endangered, students learn how clean and healthy ecosystems are crucial and what will occur if we continue to pollute the environment and destroy habitats. Through environmental education, we can all work together to change the attitudes and behaviors that have led to the endangerment of predator species and help save them from extinction.