Namibian conservation groups call for urgent action to protect large carnivores

The Large Carnivore Management Association of Namibia, in collaboration with the World Wildlife Fund Namibia, recently convened a meeting to address human-wildlife conflict and carnivore conservation. Namibia is home to 34 terrestrial carnivore species, including iconic predators, but 11 of these are classified as threatened or near threatened. Large carnivores, particularly cats, show a higher proportion of threatened species compared to medium and small carnivores.

Current estimates indicate approximately 1,200 cheetahs and 130-350 African wild dogs, which are critically endangered. Around 12 desert-adapted lions are known to inhabit the Skeleton Coast. These figures, derived from various monitoring approaches, highlight the vulnerability of Namibia's internationally significant carnivore population and underscore the need for consistent monitoring, responsible data sharing, and practical support for communities coexisting with these wide-ranging species.

The meeting saw participation from various conservation groups, government ministries, and professional associations.