Help Protect Free Roaming Lions in Southern Africa

Despite having a number of challenges this past quarter, it marked the deployment of two mobile tracking teams across the northern and eastern boundaries of the reserve. These teams operated in shifts to maximize observation opportunities, combining direct sightings with motion-sensitive cameras and tracking the signals emitted from previously collared individuals.

• Number of lions collared this quarter: 4 adult lions (2 males, 2 females)
• Total lions collared to date: 11
• New tracking equipment deployed: 6 GPS collars with solar recharging capability

The collaring process follows stringent animal welfare protocols. Each lion is tranquilized under veterinary supervision and monitored post-procedure for recovery. GPS collars are optimized for comfort and durability, minimizing any disruption to natural behaviors.

Data gathered from the GPS collars is uploaded daily to SACT’s secure cloud database. This quarter, over 2,100 location points were recorded, allowing for enhanced mapping of territorial ranges and preferred hunting grounds.

Key findings:

• Average daily range: Male lions: 18 km; Female lions: 14 km
• Notable movement: One male traversed over 60 km in a 48-hour period during a dispersal event.
• Social structure: Data confirms fluid pride composition, with two females integrating into a neighboring pride.

SACT’s data analysts have begun correlating lion movement with weather patterns and prey abundance, revealing a preference for shaded riverine woodland during peak heat.

Recognizing the importance of local support, SACT organized three community workshops in partnership with village leaders. Topics covered included lion ecology, the importance of tracking, and conflict mitigation strategies. Attendance averaged 35 participants per workshop.

Additional outreach efforts included:

• Distribution of educational brochures to four local schools
• Radio segments featuring SACT biologists
• Establishment of a reporting hotline for lion sightings outside the reserve

Despite many successes, the project encountered several hurdles:

• Collaring Difficulties: Dense vegetation and unpredictable lion behavior necessitated longer tracking periods.
• Technical Issues: Two GPS collars experienced intermittent signal loss due to terrain interference; both were recalibrated remotely.
• Poaching and unauthorized hunting resulted in the death of 2 collared lions. This is becoming worrisome. We plan to work more closely with park ranger and anti-poaching teams.
• Collar an additional 5 lions, aiming for representation from smaller prides
• Expand community engagement to two new villages, focusing on youth education
• Strengthen collaborations with local ranger teams

Plans for Next Quarter: Looking forward, SACT intends to:

See maps & photos below:

• Q3 2025 report with maps (PDF)