Dancing at a Shembe gathering — For the Shembe, leopards are seen as a symbol of pride, beauty and wealth. Courtesy of Tristan Dickerson for Panthera Leopard skins for sale — At Shembe church gatherings, trade in skins is done openly with no law enforcement. Courtesy of Tristan Dickerson for Panthera Threatened species — Poachers are increasingly killing leopards to profit from their use in traditional medicine and ceremonial dress. Courtesy of Tristan Dickerson for Panthera A ceremonial tradition — The skins are viewed as essential attire for church elders who wear them around their necks during traditional ceremonies. Courtesy of Tristan Dickerson for Panthera Resistance to change — Followers of Shembe have not been satisfied with fake furs as alternatives to leopard skins. Courtesy of Tristan Dickerson for Panthera A conservation effort — Tristan Dickerson has traveled to China to find fake furs that would be acceptable to the Shembe. Courtesy of Greg Lomas Prev Next
