Survival in uncertainty: Population dynamics of a key Endangered leopard population in West Africa amid escalating security challenges

A critical leopard population in West Africa, one of the last strongholds for the Endangered species, is showing signs of recovery despite persistent security threats. Camera-trap surveys conducted biennially from 2017 to 2023 in Pendjari National Park within the W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) Complex revealed a rise in leopard density from 0.62 to 2.08 individuals per 100 km², with moderate survival rates and sufficient recruitment to sustain population growth. While nocturnal activity dominates, diurnal behavior has increased over time, suggesting potential adaptation or behavioral shifts. The study attributes this recovery to strengthened park protection measures since 2017, though it highlights alarming trends such as a lack of cub detection and rising illegal incursions, particularly poaching, which pose significant risks. Safeguarding this population requires urgent, integrated strategies including cross-border collaboration, enhanced protection of neighboring parks, community engagement, and equitable resource governance to mitigate escalating security challenges.

Drouilly, M., Woodgate, Z., Horion, R., Ipavec, A., Durant, S. M., Rostro-García, S., Ouindeyama, A., Mann, G., Lapeyre, V., N’Diaye, Y. C., Verkaik, D., Akpona, H., Gaylard, A., & Henschel, P. (2026). Survival in uncertainty: Population dynamics of a key Endangered leopard population in West Africa amid escalating security challenges. Global Ecology and Conservation, 67, e04203. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2026.e04203