Leopards (Panthera pardus) are widely perceived as resilient due to their broad range and adaptability, but many subspecies are critically endangered.
A comprehensive study mapping over 6,000 records reveals that leopards now occupy only 25–37% of their historic range across Africa and Asia. Of nine subspecies, three hold 97% of the remaining range, while others have lost up to 98%. Several subspecies face threats from habitat isolation and small range sizes, with only about 17% of their habitat protected. Research tends to focus on more common subspecies, leaving those most endangered under-studied and in urgent need of conservation attention.
