
In a remarkable conservation success, leopard populations in Zambia’s Kafue National Park have nearly tripled, according to a recent report by a wildcat-focused conservation group. The monitored areas now host 4.4 leopards per 100 square kilometres, up from 1.5 leopards—a promising sign for Africa’s big cats.
Spanning an enormous 22,700 square miles—two-and-a-half times the size of Yellowstone National Park—Kafue is a key part of the Greater Kafue Ecosystem, a vast protected area comparable in scale to the U.S. state of Massachusetts. The park has faced decades of challenges, but conservation efforts are now yielding impressive results.
Often overshadowed by lions, leopards play a crucial role in maintaining ecosystem balance. As apex predators, they help regulate prey populations, ensuring biodiversity and habitat health. Jon Ayers, Chairman of Panthera, the world’s only conservation group solely dedicated to wildcats, highlights the importance of protecting these elusive felines.
“There are probably six different species of cats in that ecosystem. Because they’re on the top of the food chain, they indicate the health of the whole ecosystem,” Ayers explains.
While the population increase is encouraging, conservationists believe there is still tremendous potential for further recovery. Safeguarding leopards means protecting an entire ecosystem, benefiting lions, cheetahs, and countless other species. This conservation milestone offers hope for Africa’s wildlife, proving that dedicated efforts can restore even the most fragile habitats.