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de Iongh, H.; Bauer, H.; Funston, P.; Hamling, P.
Review of more than ten years research on lion ecology and lion livestock conflicts in the Waza Logone region, North Cameroon
2008  Conference Proceeding

The African Lion Working Group (ALWG) has concluded that there is a lack of research data on lion populations in Central and West Africa. The present review intends to contribute to a better knowledge of lion populations in this region with special reference to lion-livestock conflicts in the Waza Logone area, North Cameroon. Research on the lion population of Waza National Park (1700 sq. km) in North Cameroon was initiated in 1995 focusing on livestock depredation, pride structure and movements and home ranges. The main focus of research was on lions in the woodland zone of the Park and on lion-livestock conflicts South of the Park. Our research review indicates very large wet season home ranges of pride members and seasonal movements of individual lions outside the park during the wet season. We also identified the presence of male problem animals. Population estimates range between 30-60 animals in the Park and bufferzone. Prey populations and lion population size have steadily declined since a census of 1962. Wild prey biomass per kg of predator is lowest, when compared with national parks in East and South Africa. In addition lion density in Waza is low (2 animals per 100 km2), much lower than in East and South African National Parks. Our review covers lion-livestock conflicts in and around Waza N.P. Livestock losses range between 2.1% (cattle) and 20% (goats) of total stock per annum. Finally an analysis is made of factors contributing to lion-livestock conflicts in the Waza Lagone region.

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