A message from David Macdonald to Cecil’s supporters – now for some biology: Andy Loveridge and I repeat our thanks to all those who have donated to the appeal.

August 3, 2015

In countless interviews we have repeated that lion society is very complicated, and that it takes endless work, lots of skill and many years to understand it. We thought it would help you understand this if we provided a biography of Cecil – and Andy has written this as of 2nd August. When you read ... Read full story

Newsflash from David Macdonald, WildCRU’s Director: JERICHO IS ALIVE AND WELL

August 2, 2015

Last night we were surprised so see rumours of the death of a second lion, Jericho, circulating in the media – we had no evidence for this. The rumours claimed he too had been hunted illegally. The WildCRU field research team and a National Parks ranger set out at daybreak to attempt to find him. ... Read full story

News flash from David Macdonald, Director of Oxford’s WildCRU

July 31, 2015

I have wonderful news for all those following the story of Cecil, and our work for lion conservation in Zimbabwe and beyond. Overnight, thousands of donors worldwide brought the total of the Cecil Appeal to £300,000. This is stupendous my colleague Andy Loveridge and I are overwhelmed and inspired. There is more. Minutes ago I ... Read full story

Cecil – the wider significance, an interview by David Macdonald that puts Cecil’s death in context and discusses the future of conservation worldwide.

August 2, 2015

Because we have received some remarkable messages of support from Minnesotan’s, who feel particularly bruised by this episode because the hunter comes from their State, I decided, on behalf of Andy Loveridge and myself, to give a special interview to Heather McElhatton (of Minnesota Public Radio, the “A beautiful World Show”). She has kindly given ... Read full story

News up-date on the Cecil Appeal from David Macdonald

August 1, 2015

We continue to be in awe of the up-welling of concern globally following the illegal shooting of Cecil, and inspired by the interest that millions of people are taking in the conservation research that Dr Andy Loveridge and I direct in Hwange, in collaboration with Zimbabwe's National Parks Authority. We are humbled by your support ... Read full story

A message from David Macdonald to all supporters of the Cecil Appeal

July 30, 2015

We are deeply grateful for the hundreds of messages of support you have sent – the value people attach to lions and wildlife conservation inspires us. We hope to keep in touch with you all as the months go forward. Many people ask about the fate of Cecil’s cubs – we are keeping watch. As ... Read full story