Namibian Carnivore Working Group

Overview

Namibia has 34 species of terrestrial carnivores. Eleven of these are either Threatened (six species) or Near Threatened (five species). These are, starting with species under the greatest threat: African Wild Dog (Critically Endangered), Cheetah (Endangered), Black-footed Cat, Leopard, Lion and Spotted Hyaena (Vulnerable); Serval, Brown Hyaena, African Clawless Otter, Spotted-necked Otter and African Striped Weasel (Near Threatened). The other 23 terrestrial carnivore species are considered to be of “Least Concern”, meaning that their conservation status is currently considered to be secure. One species, the Black Mongoose, is near endemic to Namibia. This means that most of its population occurs in Namibia, and we have a special responsibility for its long-term welfare.