Leopards can still make a comeback in sub-Saharan Africa if appropriate conservation steps are taken: Study
A new study by conservation scientists at Nottingham Trent University suggests that targeted conservation efforts could help boost leopard numbers in sub-Saharan Africa, despite previous estimates of lower populations. The research indicates that up to 176,000 leopards could be supported within their historical range if appropriate measures are taken, including habitat protection and prey recovery. However, the study also highlights concerns about trophy hunting, which currently exceeds sustainable levels in many countries.
Quick Revision
Prelims-testable facts
- 01A new study by conservation scientists at Nottingham Trent University suggests that targeted conservation efforts could help boost leopard numbers in sub-Saharan Africa.
- 02Previous estimates of leopard populations in sub-Saharan Africa were lower than the actual number, according to a recent study.
- 03The research indicates that up to 176,000 leopards could be supported within their historical range if appropriate measures are taken.
- 04Habitat protection and prey recovery are among the conservation efforts recommended by the study to boost leopard numbers.
- 05Trophy hunting in sub-Saharan Africa exceeds sustainable levels in many countries, according to a recent study on leopard conservation.
- 06Conservation scientists at Nottingham Trent University conducted a study on leopard populations in sub-Saharan Africa.
Trap alerts
- Most people think that leopards are extinct in sub-Saharan Africa, but actually they still exist and can be conserved if appropriate measures are taken.
- Most people think that trophy hunting is the primary threat to leopard populations, but actually habitat protection and prey recovery are also crucial.
Mains Practice Question
Critically examine the role of habitat protection and prey recovery in boosting leopard populations in sub-Saharan Africa.
250 words
Practice this in the exam hall →Prelims Practice MCQs
Leopards can still make a comeback in which region?
- A.South Asia
- B.Southeast Asia
- C.Sub-Saharan Africa
- D.East Africa
Conservation efforts in sub-Saharan Africa aim to boost leopard numbers, which have been declining due to habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
According to the study, how many leopards could be supported within their historical range if appropriate conservation measures are taken?
- A.50,000
- B.100,000
- C.150,000
- D.176,000
The study suggests that up to 176,000 leopards could be supported within their historical range if conservation efforts are successful.
What is the primary concern highlighted by the study regarding leopard populations in sub-Saharan Africa?
- A.Poaching
- B.Habitat loss
- C.Trophy hunting exceeding sustainable levels
- D.Climate change
The study highlights concerns about trophy hunting, which currently exceeds sustainable levels in many countries and poses a threat to leopard populations.
Consider the following statements regarding Leopard Conservation in sub-Saharan Africa: 1. Up to 176,000 leopards could be supported within their historical range. 2. Trophy hunting is a major threat to leopard populations in many countries. 3. The study was conducted by conservation scientists at Harvard University. How many of the above statements are correct?
- A.Only one
- B.Only two
- C.All three
- D.None
Statement 1 is correct because the source states that up to 176,000 leopards could be supported within their historical range if appropriate measures are taken. Statement 2 is correct because the source highlights concerns about trophy hunting, which currently exceeds sustainable levels in many countries. However, Statement 3 is false because the study was actually conducted by conservation scientists at Nottingham Trent University.
Consider the following two statements: Statement-I: Appropriate conservation steps can help boost leopard numbers in sub-Saharan Africa. Statement-II: Habitat protection and prey recovery are essential for supporting large leopard populations. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
- B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct but Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
- C.Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- D.Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
Statement 1 is correct because the source states that targeted conservation efforts could help boost leopard numbers in sub-Saharan Africa. Statement 2 explains why this is possible, as it highlights the importance of habitat protection and prey recovery for supporting large leopard populations.