Tanzania holds Africa’s largest remaining lion populations and extensive leopard habitats, making it a major center for sport hunting of both species. A national analysis of harvest trends from 1996 to 2008 found lion harvests declined by 50%, with the steepest drops in areas with initially high trophy hunting pressure. Leopard harvests were more stable but still declined in overharvested zones outside Selous Game Reserve. Human population growth, habitat loss, and conflict also contribute to species decline, but trophy hunting intensity was the strongest statistical factor. To ensure sustainability, the study recommends annual hunting quotas be limited to 0.5 lions and 1 leopard per 1,000 km², except in Selous Game Reserve, where limits can be doubled. Effective quota management is vital for long-term lion and leopard conservation.
