W National Park and the greater W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) Complex are deeply important for the conservation of large African fauna in the region. More than 50 large mammal species are present, including significant populations of elephant, buffalo, a dozen antelope species, hippo, spotted and striped hyaena, leopard, as well as small carnivores. Over 360 bird species have been recorded, as well as 115 fish and 150 reptile species.
The last viable populations of several species are found in the WAP Complex, including the north-west African cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus ssp. hecki), a critically endangered subspecies occurring in small numbers. Ninety percent of the West African lion subpopulation also occurs here as well as several rare antelope species such as the korrigum antelope (Damaliscus korrigum).
Monitoring and Surveys
In 2020, Pendjari and W rangers fitted satellite collars on 25 elephant and 14 antelope to increase the surveillance and protection of these species in this transboundary landscape. This was the largest exercise of its kind in the region. Since then, more animals have been collared, including one lion and more elephant. Monthly and quarterly movement maps help to improve the understanding of key species’ home ranges as well as allowing WNP to adapt its conservation and research programme to the security context.
Conservation Law Enforcement
Threats to the park and its wildlife include competition with wildlife for resources, and habitat destruction from overgrazing, illegal hunting and fishing. A framework has been developed to consult with local leaders in the area to mitigate these, along with building and training of ranger teams, who undergo regular and specialised training programmes.
Together with Pendjari National Park, human-wildlife conflict (HWC) management and mitigation programmes have been implemented, where HWC victims are compensated, and elephant translocation crates constructed, ready to remove habitually problematic individuals from community areas.
Over the past decade, militant activity in the Sahel has spread into Benin and spilled into the park with devastating consequences in February 2022 and more recently in July 2024. Between 2022 and 2024, 13 African Parks staff members have tragically lost their lives, as well as a number of Beninese soldiers.
Since 2022, in an attempt to ensure the safety of park staff, we have pulled our operations back from areas under threat, away from the volatile border areas in the north. All roads coming in and out of the park are monitored, and our rangers receive specialised training in identifying improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The Benin Government has ensured we have the support of the national army which is deployed along the border to reduce the threat of militant action infiltrating W national park. Ranger teams have been increased and, through a series of training courses, technical support, and a fully engaged park leadership, the morale and confidence of the park teams has improved.
We also maintain close engagement with local communities who play a vital role in contributing to efforts in creating security within their regions. Despite the threats, positive relationships are being built between the park and surrounding communities through ongoing communication and awareness raising, as well as continued support for services, education and socio-economic opportunities.