In the Greater Kruger Area, South Africa, outside of formally protected areas, conservation research is more difficult when animals are elusive and/or nocturnal. This project aims to use camera traps and other research equipment to open up a whole world of possibilities for studying these amazing animals such as leopards, civets, wild cats and more. This will help us to understand more about their secretive lifestyles in order to more effectively conserve them in their natural habitats.
Populations of animals such as leopards, civets, wild cats and honey badgers are thought to be decreasing, yet no one actually knows for certain how many exist in the wild. Leopards alone are considered Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Without knowledge of their ecology, habitat preferences and population sizes, it is possible that these animals will begin to slip away without us even realizing.
This project will provide insight into the ecology, habitat preferences and population sizes of a wide variety of nocturnal and elusive species, focusing on leopards but including other nocturnal species. This will allow our researchers and interns to undertake their own projects, contribute towards conservation initiatives, expand the scientific knowledge base and supply information for effective management strategies in private reserves to allow for their long-term population permanence.
This project will increase the knowledge base available for leopards and other species, allowing for effective management strategies to be implemented and for information transfer to occur before it is too late to protect them. To ensure the sustainability and longevity of the African Impact Foundation during COVID-19, donations made via this page as of April 10, 2020, will be used to support all of our projects and operations across Southern and Eastern Africa.
