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Lion Research Project
Being able to see the awe-inspiring king of the bush up close must be everybody's wish, and for plenty of people the main reason for a visit to Africa. To monitor a pride of lions in the wild on a daily basis however, is something that will go beyond the wildest dreams of many. Our Lion Research Project will make your dream come true, with memories to last forever!
The Project is situated in the non-commercial Selati Game Reserve with magnificent granite hills towering over the bush. It consists of just over 30,000 hectares, boasting the presence of elephant, rhino, leopard and sable antelope as well as the other – more common but still amazing – antelope species, zebra and giraffe. Formerly a farming area, the landowners took it upon themselves to return Selati back to its’ natural state with regard to predators. As a result, in June of 2004, a pride of six lions were introduced into this spectacular reserve.
Obviously, this will affect the other animal population. The question is: to what extent? Will a balance in predator and prey populations be maintained? How are the lions settling in their new home? All this needs to be studied and that is where you come in!
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You will be trained to actively assist the highly experienced staff in the tracking and monitoring of the lions to determine movements, behaviour and the impact they are having on populations within the reserve. This pioneering research program will aid Selati and other reserves to make well-informed management decisions relating to the delicate natural balance of eco-systems and conservation in general. Your contribution, both financially and in person, is essential in running this valuable project. Again, the longer you stay here the greater the benefit to both the project and you.
Do bear in mind that as a researcher you need a lot of patience, both in tracking as in studying the animals. You will often sit for hours on end on the back of the vehicle, so don’t join this project if you get bored easily – also as your shifting around and sighing can disturb the research.... We can only say that the reward for your patience is very high!!
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At the project you can expect to take part in the following:
- Monitoring the lion pride early morning and late afternoon for several hours each session
- Tracking the collared lions using radio telemetry
- Tracking techniques when walking on foot
- Navigation techniques including map reading and recognising landmarks
- Using a GPS for orientation and research applications
- Data collection, input and (optional) analysis
- Basic Geographical Information System (GIS) knowledge and application (optional)
- Identi-kits of rhino and other 'special species', including the elusive aardvark
- Game counts, game monitoring and transect analysis
- Elephant monitoring
Although the main focus is predator research, when time allows there are additional activities to deepen your experience and aid the reserve, including:
- Identification of other animals, their tracks and droppings
- Plant identification and their uses
- Alien vegetation identification and control
- Erosion control
- Animal habituation and monitoring, including leopard
- Bird monitoring – bird counts, species list and raptor identification
- Environmental educational programmes with local schools
Accommodation:
Spacious, shared farmhouse in a secluded spot on the reserve. Three shared bedrooms (two 2-person rooms and one 4-person room, all separate beds), one bathroom and a shower outside. Pillow and mattress cover provided, bring your own sleeping bag.
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Facilities:
| Fully equipped kitchen | Solar electricity |
| Braai area | Scullery to do your laundry |
Price Includes:
Accommodation (volunteers are expected to carry out all house duties)
3 meals a day (self catering, ingredients provided)
Tea, coffee, juice, fruit
All training for the research of the wild lions, and the research itself
Additional educational activities
Transport to and from the project
Not included:
Laundry, which can be done for a nominal fee.
Group size: 1-8 students
Minimum stay: 2 Weeks
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