This project is expected to reduce disturbances to the nesting habitats of the West African slender-snouted crocodile caused by unsustainable farming. A five-week training for 224 vegetable farmers will promote sustainable practices that minimize habitat degradation and pollution from excessive agrochemical use. Since annual vegetable farming is a major threat to the species and also a key livelihood, promoting eco-friendly techniques offers a win-win outcome. Additionally, community-wide awareness campaigns targeting both adults and schoolchildren will enhance local understanding of conservation issues and encourage environmental stewardship. Together, these interventions will support the long-term protection of the species and its critical habitat.
This grant strategically builds directly on THRESCOAL's long-term conservation programme initiated in 2017. It represents a continuation and scaling up of successful, evidence-based, and community-driven actions essential to securing the future of this Critically Endangered species. Major prior achievements include the first population estimates to guide long-term monitoring, detailed nesting ecology studies across four seasons, radio telemetry to determine home range and habitat use, and threat assessments. We have also planted over 20,000 indigenous trees to restore degraded nesting habitats. To integrate local perspectives, we interviewed more than 650 residents, fostering a sense of ownership and support for crocodile conservation. In partnership with local authorities and landowners, we are finalizing the legal designation of a community-based crocodile sanctuary. Additionally, to reduce human pressure on nesting sites, we have supported 204 landowners with alternative livelihoods, creating habitat buffers through voluntary land-use agreements.