The Southern & East African Leopard Genome Project
- Free The Wild
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
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It’s always hard to ask, but please donate today to support a vital initiative to give leopards the protection they need to survive in our ever-changing world.
One of Africa’s most iconic and elusive predators, the majestic leopard, is facing an uncertain future across all of Africa. Habitat loss, human conflict and historical persecution have significantly reduced leopard numbers and fragmented once continuous populations that spanned the entire continent.
To help secure a brighter future for these amazing animals, Free The Wild is proud to support the Southern & East African Leopard Genome Project — a groundbreaking scientific initiative, led by the Landmark Foundation in collaboration with leading universities and conservation institutions, to map and understand the full genetic diversity of South African leopards.
This first-of-its-kind project aims to provide critical insights into their survival through advanced genome sequencing, aiming to guide targeted conservation efforts, reconnect fragmented populations and ensure the long-term viability of the species.
Below, we explore what the Leopard Genome Project entails, why it is so important and how it will directly support the creation of a robust, evidence-based Species Management Plan for leopards across southern — and eventually — all of Africa.
What the Leopard Genome Project Entails:
The Landmark Foundation, along with major international universities and research groups, is conducting the first-ever, full genome study of African leopards, focusing mainly on South African populations at the outset (especially the Eastern, Western, and Northern Cape provinces), with a view to expand to the rest of the continent.
They are using over 43 leopard DNA samples and another 50 already sequenced genomes from across South Africa other Southern African and East African countries.
These samples will undergo next-generation whole-genome sequencing to map both mitochondrial and nuclear DNA.
The research compares South African leopards with each other and with leopards from elsewhere in Africa (Namibia, Zambia, East Africa).
Sophisticated analysis (software like Trimmomatic, BWA, SAMtools, GATK) will determine how genetically connected or isolated leopard populations are and identify patterns of gene flow or fragmentation.
Ultimately, the project will produce:
Scientific publications surrounding leopard genetics, diversity and population metrics.
A public database of leopard genetic data.
Key information input to a Species Management Plan draft for the South African government (and wider use) based on this genetic information.
Why It’s Important:
1. Leopard populations are declining:
Due to habitat loss, fragmentation (e.g., from farmland like wheat, barley and canola) and direct human-caused deaths (historically and currently).
Especially critical in South Africa’s Cape provinces, where leopard numbers are much lower compared to other regions and almost 400 years of extermination practices have seen the populations decimated.
2. Genetic diversity is under threat:
Isolated leopard populations are vulnerable to inbreeding and genetic bottlenecks, which lower survival rates and adaptability.
Without sufficient gene flow between populations, they cannot maintain healthy genetic diversity.
3. Current genetic studies have been limited:
Previous studies (using older techniques like mitochondrial markers) gave conflicting results.
Full genome sequencing will provide far more detailed and reliable data.
How the Genome Project Will Help Leopards:
Identify isolated or vulnerable populations: By detecting where gene flow is blocked, conservationists can act before inbreeding worsens.
Plan interventions: For example, creating wildlife corridors between isolated leopard populations or even relocating individuals to maintain genetic health.
Prioritise conservation areas: Create genetic “hotspots” where diversity can be prioritised for protection.
Guide human-wildlife conflict mitigation: Knowing where leopards are genetically stressed could inform land-use planning, reduce unnecessary killings and protect key breeding populations.
Long-term survival: By maintaining genetic diversity, leopards will be more resilient to disease, environmental changes and other threats.
How It Links to a Species Management Plan:
The Species Management Plan that will emerge from this study will:
Use genetic data to guide decisions on leopard conservation.
Identify corridors where connectivity between populations can be restored.
Guide relocation or augmentation efforts (moving individuals between areas if needed).
Inform land management practices (like farm expansion policies) to minimise leopard population isolation.
Provide policymakers and conservationists with real, genetic-evidence-based strategies, rather than assumptions or outdated ideas.
How does the genome study aim to help mitigate human-leopard conflict?
By understanding where leopard populations are genetically fragile or isolated, conservationists can proactively manage landscapes to reduce conflict hotspots.
If leopards have safe corridors to move between territories, they are less likely to encroach on human settlements (because they can naturally disperse).
Managing the genetic health of populations prevents desperate behaviours like livestock raiding, which often occur when leopards are boxed into poor habitats.
Thus, healthy, connected leopard populations are less stressed, less risky to humans, and easier to live alongside.
We are currently fundraising to support the Leopard Genome Project with a $20,000 grant so that leopards across Africa can continue to thrive.
Please join us in giving leopards a fighting chance by donating today. Every penny raised goes straight to the researchers, field workers and conservationists working to ensure leopards continue to roam the wilds of Africa. What would this beautiful world be if it weren’t for the amazing and awe-inspiring animals that call it home?