Introduction
West African leopards, a geographically distinct subspecies, have faced significant challenges to their survival. With only 354 individuals estimated across West Africa, this population is listed as regionally endangered on the IUCN Red List since 2025, following a 50% decline over the past two decades.
The Situation in Pendjari National Park
In Pendjari National Park, Benin, a vast wilderness area situated within a hotspot of armed conflict, monitoring leopards has been a challenge. However, a recent study published in the journal Global Ecology and Conservation brought hopeful news. Leopard density in the park increased over a six-year period.
Since 2017, the park has been managed by the nonprofit African Parks in partnership with the government, and these conservation efforts seem to be working. According to Marine Drouilly, biologist with Panthera, the global wild cat conservation nonprofit, and lead author of the study, “It’s a win”.
Challenges and Threats
West African leopards face several threats. The rapidly growing human population across West Africa means wildlife habitat is disappearing and becoming more fragmented, isolating already small leopard populations. Additionally, widespread bushmeat hunting leaves leopards without enough prey.
There is a growing threat from poachers continent-wide, as leopards are targeted for their spotted skins, canine teeth, bones, and other body parts, killed to supply the illegal wildlife trade.
Other Important Strongholds
Beyond Pendjari National Park, other important strongholds for West African leopards include the Niokolo-Koba–Badiar landscape in Senegal and the Guinea, Taï, and Comoé National Parks in Côte d’Ivoire and Mole National Park in Ghana.
Conclusion
The recovery of West African leopards is a sign of hope for biodiversity conservation. However, it is crucial that conservation efforts continue and are expanded to protect these majestic cats and their habitats.
Source / Reference: Mongabay