Density trends of the endangered large-spotted civet and sympatric civet species in Srepok Wildlife Sanctuary, Eastern Cambodia

Background The large-spotted civet (Viverra megaspila) has experienced a sharp decline in abundance and distribution over the past century. Despite its Endangered status, data on this species are limited, and its density has never been estimated. Aims This study addresses this gap by analyzing long-term camera-trap data to provide the first density estimate, population trends, and population viability analysis for the large-spotted civet. Methods These analyses were focused on Srepok Wildlife Sanctuary, Cambodia, one of the last potential strongholds for the species. We also examined the density and abundance of other sympatric civet species to contextualize the conservation status of the large-spotted civet within the civet community. Key results Our results show a decline of at least 75–95% in large-spotted civet density, from approximately 9.40 individuals/100 km2 to 0.51 individual/100 km2 between 2009 and 2019. In contrast, the density of the large Indian civet (Viverra zibetha) increased from 2.41 individuals/100 km2 to 7.24 individuals/100 km2 over the same period. The common palm civet (Paradoxurus hermaphroditus) and the small Indian civet (Viverricula indica) showed no trend in abundance. Our population viability analysis models projected that within the next decade, the large-spotted civet will likely become extinct in Srepok, whereas the large Indian civet population is projected to grow. Conclusions The sharp decline in large-spotted civet numbers raises significant conservation concerns, with the species nearing extinction in one of its last global strongholds. Implications Urgent conservation actions are needed for the large-spotted civet, including reducing illegal poaching, community engagement, research on reproductive ecology and long-term population monitoring.