The next phase is to GPS collar a significant number of resident animals within defined study areas. To enable the assimilation of accurate data on resident leopard movement and behaviour, beyond that which is possible via standard labour intensive methods (camera traps and spoor recognition).

The ILP has a growing international presence, including a social network of interested amateurs and wildlife professionals around the world.

Background and Methodology

The leopard is a Low-Density (highly territorial) species scheduled on CITES 1, roaming within large areas. It is certified and listed as a RARE species within the SA Red Data Book for Mammals. It is situated on the top of the food chain and will be the first species to decline, should anything go wrong regarding wild animal species within the system. The Lydenburg Magisterial District is known for quite a significant amount of leopard activity and is the centre of ILP research. Data on the density and behaviour of Leopards outside of formally protected areas does not currently exist in any credible format, leaving a gap in understanding. Substantiated data is required to assist in the formulation of wildlife management policies.

Conflict with Humans

It is essential that management practices be established to address the issues that surround the conflict between people and predators, whether this is farmers or hunters. Local people assume that the leopard density is much higher than most other areas inhabited by these animals. Authorities are accused of issuing or refusing permits to hunt leopards or kill problem animals without adequate knowledge as to the actual status of these animals. Because many farmers blame leopard for all their livestock losses, the animals are killed indiscriminately while income from hunters encourages hunting. Hunters then kill the first suitable leopard rather than to search for the culprit. A healthy leopard population should be regarded as an asset. Most livestock farmers judge this animal actually as vermin. Through the Ingwe Leopard Project, it will be possible to determine the status of the leopard population. The conservation of this species should then form part of a greater tourism development programme. As a community-focussed project, it will ensure the communities involvement while all parties benefit from the results. Therefore, the aim will be to look for various ways to utilise this asset on a sustainable way for the benefit of the local community and the leopard population.

Black Leopard

There have been a significant number of Black Leopard sightings in the Lydenburg area dating back to 1952. Although two Black Leopards have been born in captivity, to date they have not be photographed or studied in the wild. It is intended to redouble efforts to capture, collar and release a Black Leopard to enable monitoring of this creature. Data gathered from its behaviour as well as those individuals, with whom it is interacting, will contribute as an indication of the status of the leopards for that specific area.