Survey shows decline in Uganda's lions but hyenas thrive

Survey shows decline in Uganda's lions but hyenas thrive
by Simon Mansfield
Sydney, Australia (SPX) Dec 06, 2024

A comprehensive survey led by Griffith University, Southern University of Science and Technology (China), and Northern Arizona University has revealed alarming declines in lion populations across Uganda while spotted hyenas appear to thrive. This collaborative study marks the first extensive population assessment of Uganda's lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas in nearly 20 years.

Spanning six major protected areas, including the 4000 km Murchison Falls and the 2400 km Queen Elizabeth Conservation Area, the study incorporated input from over 100 conservation stakeholders. Using advanced spatial capture-recapture techniques, the findings have already informed Uganda's Strategic Action Plan for Large Carnivore Conservation (2023-2033).

Lion Populations Critically Low

The study uncovered steep declines in lion populations, particularly in the Queen Elizabeth and Kidepo Valley National Parks, with fewer than 40 and 20 lions remaining, respectively. Murchison Falls National Park was identified as the last significant stronghold for lions, hosting a density of seven lions per 100 km and an estimated 240 individuals across a 3233 km sampling area. Despite ongoing threats from poaching and oil exploration, Murchison Falls remains a critical conservation priority.

Hyenas Flourishing Amidst Declines

While lions face critical challenges, spotted hyenas showed resilience, with the Murchison Falls population achieving the highest density ever recorded in Africa at 45 individuals per 100 km. Researchers suggested that hyenas might be benefiting from declining lion populations, though areas like Murchison Falls still support robust numbers of all three species: lions, leopards, and hyenas.

Leopard Populations Steady but Uneven

Leopards demonstrated variable densities across Uganda, with Murchison Falls again emerging as a key area, recording 14 leopards per 100 km, the highest density observed in Africa. Researchers attributed these results to anti-poaching efforts by the Ugandan government and NGOs such as the Uganda Conservation Foundation and Snares to Wares.

Collaboration and Training: A Key Success

The survey's collaborative approach brought together over 100 participants from 20 organizations, including local NGOs and conservation groups. Lead researcher Dr. Alexander Braczkowski highlighted the importance of this participatory model, noting it provided opportunities for community members to engage in scientific research while building local capacity for ongoing conservation monitoring.

"This survey highlights both the challenges and successes of Uganda's carnivore conservation," said Dr. Braczkowski. "The collaborative nature of this work - spanning governments, NGOs, and local communities - is a testament to what's possible for wildlife conservation. More importantly, these are the kinds of training exercises that are most needed if we hope to build the science capacity in the places that need it most."

The findings underscore the urgent need for conservation efforts, as iconic carnivore species face threats from poaching, habitat loss, and human-wildlife conflict. The team stressed the vital role of community engagement in addressing these challenges and ensuring long-term success in wildlife conservation.

Research Report:Insights into Large Carnivore Populations in Uganda: A Participatory Survey of Lions, Leopards, and Hyenas Using Spatial Capture-Recapture