Local Ecological Knowledge Reveals the Distribution of Cryptic Nocturnal Wildlife

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ABSTRACT Nocturnal and cryptic species are difficult to detect using conventional methods, creating knowledge gaps that hinder conservation. Local ecological knowledge (LEK) can inform conservation, but its relevance for cryptic species remains little understood. We conducted group interviews in 52 villages across southern Guinea‐Bissau, to investigate LEK of nocturnal primates. Responses support that the West African potto ( Perodicticus potto ) is likely absent. Galagos ( Galago senegalensis, Galagoides demidoff and possibly Galagoides thomasi ) were reported present in 28/52 villages, primarily identified through vocalizations and red eyeshine. Local names for all mammals except galagos and their conflation with other wildlife suggest limited human interaction. Reproducing vocalizations and comparing with carnivore eyeshine improved identification accuracy. Other studies could use other tailored traits, such as diet. This study shows that LEK can provide large‐scale data on cryptic species, refining biogeographical understanding and informing targeted surveys.