Large carnivore distribution, conflicts and threats in the east of the Somali region, Ethiopia

Large carnivore distribution in Ethiopia is not well documented; we did 108 interviews and 12 focus group discussions in six districts of the Somali Region to gather basic information. The Region is not listed as resident range for big cats, but our results indicate widespread presence of cheetah, and possible remnants of lion and leopard occurrence. Spotted and striped hyaena, plus many smaller species, are frequently encountered. In contrast to positive attitudes towards wild grazers, all carnivores are persecuted in response to frequent conflict leading to injuries and deaths among people and livestock. Lion and cheetah cubs were regularly captured and trafficked, and this may have contributed to lion declines especially. Cheetah cubs are still regularly caught and we mapped how they are smuggled to Somalia/Somaliland from where they enter the pet trade.

Automated summary

The distribution of large carnivores in Ethiopia, particularly in the Somali Region, has not been well-documented. However, our interviews and discussions indicate the widespread presence of cheetahs, and possibly the remnants of lions and leopards. While attitudes towards wild grazers are positive, all carnivores face persecution due to frequent conflicts resulting in injuries and deaths among humans and livestock. Lion and cheetah cubs are regularly captured and trafficked, potentially contributing to the decline in lion populations. Cheetah cubs are still being caught and smuggled to Somalia/Somaliland for the pet trade.