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Leopards Bounce Back in Ivory Coast's Conflict-Ravaged Comoe Park
31 Oct
Summary
- Leopard population in Comoe National Park surprisingly strong
- West Africa's big cats like lions and cheetahs face severe decline
- Security issues in northern Ivory Coast threaten conservation efforts
As of October 2025, Comoe National Park in northeastern Ivory Coast is witnessing a remarkable comeback for the leopard population, defying the bleak outlook for big cats across West Africa.
According to researcher Robin Horion, a recent survey conducted by the conservation organization Panthera found that the leopard population in Comoe is potentially the largest in the region, a "very pleasant surprise" given the park's conflict-ridden history over the past decade.
The news stands in stark contrast to the dire situation facing other big cat species in West Africa. Horion explains that leopards are endangered across the region, with fewer than 500 mature individuals remaining between Senegal and Nigeria. Lions and cheetahs are also in peril, with only two small lion populations left and the cheetah facing the risk of extinction within the next 10-20 years.
However, Comoe National Park appears to be a rare bright spot. Horion notes that the park, along with the Tai National Park in western Ivory Coast, have well-managed leopard populations. Discussions are also underway to reintroduce lions into Comoe.
Despite this positive news, the long-term future of Comoe's wildlife remains uncertain. The security situation in northern Ivory Coast, where jihadist and militia fighters operate, poses a "major question mark and latent threat" that could quickly undermine conservation efforts in the region.
