The impact of trophy hunting on lions (Panthera leo) and other large carnivores in the Bénoué Complex, northern Cameroon

► We study large carnivore abundance in hunting- and no-hunting zones of North Cameroon. ► Lion density is significantly lower in the hunting zones compared to national parks. ► There was no difference in leopard and spotted hyena density in the two areas. ► Total lion numbers were significantly lower than prey biomass would predict. ► A 5-year moratorium should ensure the sustainable off-take of 2 adult lions per year.