Methods for lion monitoring: a comparison from the S elous G ame R eserve, T anzania

Africa's largest lion population, residing in Tanzania's Selous Game Reserve, has been estimated at 4,300 individuals (range: 1,700–6,900) using innovative call-up surveys. This method, employing buffalo calf distress calls to census lions in hunting sectors and photographic areas, proved effective for monitoring cryptic hunted carnivores. While the overall density estimate of 0.02 to 0.10 lions per km² remained consistent with previous data from 1997–1999, a notable decline in adult sex ratio was observed—dropping from 1 male : 1.3 female to 1 male : 3 females. The study underscores the importance of long-term projects for calibrating survey responses and tracking demographic trends, providing critical insights for conserving this iconic population amidst trophy hunting and tourism pressures.

Brink, H., Smith, R. J., & Skinner, K. (2012). Methods for lion monitoring: a comparison from the Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania. African Journal of Ecology, 51(2), 366–375. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/aje.12051