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The WildCRU |
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Background |
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Delivering Conservation Solutions Through Science |
|
The WildCRU |
|
Background |
|
Delivering Conservation Solutions Through Science |
We have studied the effects of Sport hunting on the lion population in Hwange for the past 5 years and combined this with historic data from hunting records dating back to 1974.
Our study uses GPS and VHF collars to locate the lions and build a map of their movements in the Park. Lions are captured using standard chemical immobilisation and fitted with collars, measured and weighed. We sample the lions blood and hair for Genetic studies and disease assays.
When we are finished working with the lion we reverse the sedatives and the lion rouses. To ensure its safety we stay nearby and keep watch for the potential danger of hyenas, elephants and other lions.
This is a safe and humane operation in which we have never lost the life of, or endangered any lions.
Once collared, we use radio telemetry to relocate the lions regularly and record their positions or download their movement data from the GPS collars by remote radio receiver.
In 2005 we will be embarking on a series of new scientific ventures in Hwange. We hope to provide improved estimations of vital population statistics such as the size and composition of the population as a whole. The success of lions hunting efforts and their breeding capacity. These data will enable us to draw the necessary conclusions for effective management by conservationists, sportsmen and tourists alike.
To contact us:
(UK) +441865 393 100
(UK FAX) +441865 393 101
(ZIMBABWE FAX/PHONE) +263 18 395
Email: wildsec@zoology.oxford.ac.uk
Project Email: tawnycat@mweb.co.zw