Unveiling Somaliland’s Wildlife: Insights from the Camera Trap Project

Nestled in the Horn of Africa, Somaliland is a land of untamed beauty, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. From vast deserts and rugged hills to coastal regions stretching over 850 kilometres along the Gulf of Aden, this region is a treasure trove of ecological wonders. Despite its arid climate, Somaliland boasts an astonishing variety of biodiversity, including over 727 bird species and 177 mammal species—some of which are among the world’s most endangered.

A Groundbreaking Conservation Effort

To better understand and protect the cheetah population in Somaliland, our team launched the Somaliland Camera Trap Project, a pioneering effort using noninvasive techniques to assess cheetah status and distribution. This initiative is vital in gathering critical data to inform conservation strategies and legal frameworks.

We deployed a total of 154 cameras across the Awdal region, aiming to:

• Identify current cheetah distribution in the Horn of Africa.
• Understand the ecological factors influencing their population.
• Provide baseline data to inform conservation interventions.
• Highlight ongoing threats to cheetahs, such as habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade.

By leveraging technology, this project marks a significant step toward data-driven National Conservation Action Plans, strengthening wildlife law enforcement, and mitigating human-wildlife conflicts.

Incredible Wildlife Encounters

Beyond cheetahs, Somaliland is home to an array of extraordinary species. During a recent camera trap survey in the western regions, our team encountered some of Somaliland’s most iconic wildlife, including:

• Soemmerring’s gazelle, Speke’s gazelle, and Dorcas gazelle – agile and graceful antelopes adapted to arid environments.
• Gerenuk – known as the ‘giraffe gazelle’ for its long neck and ability to stand on hind legs to reach high foliage.
• Klipspringer – a small, sure-footed antelope that thrives in rocky terrains.
• Spotted hyenas and African golden wolves – key predators maintaining the ecological balance.
• Caracals and Desert warthogs – elusive and resilient species surviving in harsh conditions.
• Hamadryas baboons and Salt’s Dik Dik – fascinating examples of Somaliland’s diverse mammalian life.
• Greater kudu – Somaliland’s national animal, recognized for its striking twisted horns and regal presence.

The Urgency of Conservation

With increasing threats such as habitat destruction, poaching, and illegal wildlife trade, projects like the Camera Trap Project play a crucial role in securing the future of cheetahs and their habitat. By collecting scientific data, we can advocate for stronger conservation policies, raise awareness, and work toward sustainable solutions that benefit wildlife and local communities.

Join Us in Protecting Somaliland’s Wildlife

Every bit of knowledge brings us closer to safeguarding these incredible species. Stay informed, spread awareness, and support conservation efforts. Click here to learn how you can help make a difference!