Lions In West Africa Face Extinction

The research by a non-profit organization, Panthera says that close to 400 lions are still remaining in several countries there.

This according to the research organization was ‘catastrophic collapse’ in the numbers.

West African lions are genetically distinct from others in Africa causing the decrease in numbers.

Out of the 21 different protected areas the lions are believed to live, they exist only in 4 of them.

With fewer than 250 mature lions of breeding age, there are concerns the entire population could disappear.

“The majority of the lions habitat has been converted for agricultural use,” says Philipp Henschel, co-author of the report.

The lions have unique genetic sequence which is not found in other lions including in zoos or captivity.

If they are lost then a unique locally adapted population will become extinct, researchers say.

The five West African countries that harbour the lions include Senegal, Nigeria, Benin, Niger and Bukina-Faso.

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) says concerted international help is urgently needed.

Benin and Senegal are working with the research team to establish a National Lion Action Plan to identify ways and measures to save the lions in their countries.

To save the lion will require a massive commitment of resources from the international community,” said Panthera's President Luke Hunter.

By Beth Nyaga

Source: BBC News