Title:
A Citizen Science Survey of cheetahs and leopards in Etosha National Park
Publication Year:
2025
Abstract:

Accurately estimating species population sizes and distributions is essential in wildlife conservation and management, particularly for keystone species such as large carnivores. These species play a pivotal role in ecosystems due to their position at the top of the food chain. Furthermore, it is often difficult to estimate the population size of carnivores by traditional census methods. This project aims to produce the first-ever population size estimates and spatial distributions for cheetahs and leopards in Etosha National Park, Namibia. Both species have unique coat patterns, allowing for individual identification from direct observation. Using photographs of cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) and leopards (Panthera pardus) submitted by visitors to Etosha National Park from 2024 to 2025, we use a specialized Artificial Intelligence (AI) platform (i.e. the African Carnivore Wildbook) to aid in identifying individuals. The data will be analysed within a spatially explicit capture-mark-recapture framework to generate population estimates and confidence intervals. The principal output of this project will be providing up-to-date population size estimates for cheetahs and leopards in Etosha National Park, a priority expressed by the Etosha Ecological Institute and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. This research will contribute to the management of Etosha National Park by providing essential data to inform conservation strategies, ensuring the long-term sustainability of these keystone species and their ecosystems.

Publication Title:
African Journal of Wildlife Research
Volume:
55
Issue:
2
Item Type:
Journal Article
Language:
en