West African lions can make a comeback if protected, says Wild Africa Fund
On World Lion Day, 2023, Wild Africa Fund has urged the public to protect lions by reducing illegal bushmeat consumption, supporting better protection of their shrinking habitat, and championing anti-poaching measures.
Today, in West Africa, only about 120 – 374 lions remain. Unlike in southern Africa, where these majestic cats are generally well protected and maintain stable populations, West African lions face extinction, losing 99 percent of their historic range.
Beyond habitat loss, lions have suffered a decline in prey species such as antelope due to the bushmeat trade and are frequently killed in retaliation for preying on livestock. Additionally, the snares and traps set for bushmeat often injure and kill lions.
Source: tribuneonlineng
