In almost every wildlife programme the Lion is the undoubted star of the show. Whenever anyone thinks of the wildlife in Africa, an image of a golden pride of lions trekking across the savannah comes to mind. These incredible big cats may be a symbol of strength in the animal kingdom, but lion conservation efforts are needed now more than ever to prevent the decline of this amazing animal. Lions once roamed across vast swathes of land in both Africa and Asia, but as their two major threats of habitat loss and hunting become ever more prominent, the fate of the lion is well and truly uncertain.
This is why here at The Great Projects we are delighted to be able to offer you the chance to take part in one of our incredible lion conservation projects! You can travel to South Africa or even Namibia to immerse yourself in the world of the planet's most famous big cat. Lion conservation projects are crucial to the survival of this big cat, so why not sign up to a project and help now!
Although a population of 20,000-30,000 may seem like a lot, in the grand scheme of things it spells danger for the lion. Over the last 20 years, their numbers have plummeted by around 30% and today over 40% of their population is in decline.The lion was not placed under the protection of the Endangered Species Act until December 2015, and this could go some way as to explaining why their numbers continued to drop at such an alarming rate. Now that they are on the list, the hope is that their species will be able to recover.
Lions may be an apex predator, but they are coming under increasing pressure from human-based threats. Two of the biggest of these threats are:
Experience hands-on volunteering in Africa in the heart of the beautiful Namibian wilderness!
Volunteer with the 'Big Five' and the Born Free Foundation in one of South Africa's finest game reserves.
Assist in vital conservation efforts in South Africa, working to protect the iconic ‘Big Five’.
Human-wildlife conflict has significantly increased over the years in many parts of the world, whether this is due to battles over land, food or water, or the ever increasing illegal wildlife trade, there are sadly many reasons why wildlife and humans clash with each other daily. Namibia is one example of a country that has been heavily affected by such conflict, but what does this mean for the future of its resident wildlife?
Read on for some exciting updates from our friends at the Zululand Wildlife Conservation Project, including some close encounters with some of South Africa’s most incredible wildlife species! If this blog leaves you longing to witness rhinos, lions and more throughout South Africa, don't forget to head to our project page to secure your place!
Kevin Richardson is known worldwide as 'The Lion Whisperer' for his unique relationship with lions. He has essentially been accepted as an honorary member of the prides of captive lions in his care, that reside at his Wildlife Sanctuary in South Africa. Despite supporting conservation initiatives, his interactions with these felines is very controversial so what do you think?
Human-wildlife conflict has significantly increased over the years in many parts of the world, whether this is due to battles over land, food or water, or the ever increasing illegal wildlife trade, there are sadly many reasons why wildlife and humans clash with each other daily. Namibia is one example of a country that has been heavily affected by such conflict, but what does this mean for the future of its resident wildlife?
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