Songon, June 2, 2026 (AIP) – The pygmy hippopotamus population in Côte d’Ivoire faces serious threats linked to the degradation of its natural habitat, particularly due to deforestation and illegal gold mining, warned the head of the Biodiversity and Nature-Based Solutions Research Division at the Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques (CSRS) in Côte d’Ivoire, Prof. Karim Ouattara.

The researcher spoke on May 29, 2026, in Adiopodoumé, during a workshop dedicated to the preliminary development of a research-action plan for the conservation of the pygmy hippopotamus in Côte d’Ivoire.

According to Prof. Ouattara, the expansion of illegal gold mining activities is one of the main threats to this rare species. He specifically pointed to the use of mercury, which pollutes the waterways and wetlands frequented by pygmy hippos.

“The pygmy hippopotamus spends much of its day in the water. However, its skin is particularly sensitive. The pollution of waterways by mercury and other substances used in illegal gold mining has harmful effects on its health and survival,” the expert explained.

He also emphasized that the gradual destruction of forests is reducing the vital habitats needed for the species to feed, reproduce, and move about, thereby increasing its vulnerability.

An iconic species of West African forest ecosystems, the pygmy hippopotamus now survives only in Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.

Faced with declining populations and the ongoing degradation of its habitat, the species has been classified as “Endangered” on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List since 2007.

Workshop participants called for strengthened conservation, research, and awareness-raising efforts to preserve this species, which is emblematic of West Africa’s natural heritage.

(AIP)/tg/cmas