There are numerous programmes currently in operation within The Gambia to develop more sustainable land use practices. All the major wild mammals known to be permanently resident in the Gambia at the present time have been recorded in Kiang West National Park, making it the foremost wildlife reserve in the country. The park offers a significant national refuge for species such as Caracal, Serval, Bushbuck and Common Duiker which are all fairly widespread in The Gambia but in low density. Roan Antelope are not currently resident in the area though small groups visit the park from the Cassamance area of Senegal during the end of the rainy season. As their home range is typically 80-1000 square km, the park is probably inadequate to support this species year round.
Warthogs are abundant in the park and surrounding woodlands.
Spotted hyena are common, their tracks are found regularly throughout the area but they are shy and rarely seen during daytime. There have been occasional sightings of leopards in the area, though being shy and elusive they are unlikely to be encountered. Reptiles that occur include the Nile Crocodile and the African Rock Python, Bell's Rock Python, Nile Monitor, African Beauty Snake, Spitting Cobra and Puffadder. Oysters from the roots of the mangroves are a delicacy for both local residents and visitors. Avi-Fauna A survey carried out in July 1990 identified a total of 158 species from 48 different families occurring within the park.