Conservation Programs

African Lion Abundance

Estimating Lion Abundance in Tanzania

 
Estimating lion abundance can be challenging for wildlife managers. This project was embarked upon to ensure that management of the African lion uses best available science for surveys. The primary goal of this project was to review survey methods for consistency and accuracy for lion abundance estimates.  
 
Species Involved: African Lion
 

Project Partners: Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute, The State University of New York

SCIF Investment: $500,000+ (With funding assistance from HLF and Fighting For Lions)

SCIF Involvement: 2014-2022

Study Outcomes

This project is one of the few to quantitatively compare survey methods for lions in the field.  The study reviewed and identified available methods used to estimate lion populations, including their feasibility, cost-effectiveness and suitability. Twelve (12) methods in two categories: direct (minimum counts, call- in surveys, capture– recapture, opportunistic sightings, remote cameras, distance- based and aerial counts) and indirect (track counts, secondary information, prey- based, genetic samples and roar counts) were reviewed.

The study finding recommended basing future policies and management on repeatable, precise and accurate population estimates supported by appropriate and cost-effective experimental designs. It was further recommended that survey estimates are obtained through actual lion counts derived from direct observation methods including call- in, capture– recapture and remote camera surveys or through reliable animal signs such as genetic samples.
 

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