Estimation of Population Size and Density of the Far Eastern Leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) in the Southwest of Primorsky Krai

Abstract

Monitoring of the critically endangered Far Eastern leopard is crucial for understanding population status and trends to assess the effectiveness of conservation interventions. This study provides an up-to-date assessment of the Far Eastern leopard population in the southwest of Primorsky Krai, Russia. Population parameters were derived from camera trap monitoring data conducted in the protected areas in 2022. The analysis of population size and density was carried out using the spatially explicit capture-recapture method. A total of 116 individuals were identified: 104 adults and 12 cubs. The estimated population size was 118 individuals (95% CI: 115–121), with a population density of 2.46 individuals/100 km², which is 20% higher than previously published estimations for 2020 and doubled since 2014. A reassessment of the global population of Far Eastern leopards will require a combination of data from both Russia and China, as was done in 2014 and 2015.

Keywords

Amur leopard / camera traps / Panthera pardus orientalis / population assessment / protected areas / SECR

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