Spatially explicit camera trap‐based lion monitoring in Tanzania's Selous–Nyerere landscape

Lion population densities in Tanzania's Selous–Nyerere landscape vary significantly, ranging from as low as 0.33 lions per 100 km² in the dry eastern Miguruwe sector of Selous Game Reserve to a high of 6.27 individuals per 100 km² in the prey-rich lakes area of Matambwe sector within Nyerere National Park. This variation is primarily driven by prey availability, which is closely tied to miombo woodland productivity. However, anthropogenic pressures, particularly near boundaries, appear to be negatively impacting lion densities. The study employed spatially explicit capture-recapture (SECR) modeling using camera trap data from seven sites across the landscape, demonstrating the effectiveness of this method for monitoring lion populations in remote areas. This approach not only provides insights into lion population dynamics but also offers a foundation for sustainable conservation strategies and evidence-based management decisions.

Searle, C. E., Strampelli, P., Parsais, S. N., Haule, L., Olesyapa, K., Salum, N. D., Hape, G., Elisa, M., Mathayo, D., Ikanda, D., Mtoka, S., Lobora, A. L., Oriol‐Cotterill, A., & Dickman, A. J. (2025). Spatially explicit camera trap‐based lion monitoring in Tanzania’s Selous–Nyerere landscape. Journal of Zoology, 326(3), 256–267. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1111/jzo.70019