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2006 Project News |
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The three orphaned lion cubs found trapped in a pit in
Northern Kenya were moved to Mugie Ranch in 
January
2005 under the supervision of Claus Mortensen. Although the male of the
three unfortunately did not survive the relocation process (often a risk
when handling wild animals brought into captivity) the two females thrived
in the Boma until December 2005. At that point they were collared with
radio transmitters, given a final health check, and released to the wild.
They were then tracked by radio, as visual contact is likely to impede the rehabilitation process. The first indication of a successful return to the wild was the killing of a warthog within a week of release. This was very encouraging, as although they had never hunted or even seen a hunt, they had hunted and fed on their own immediately upon their release.
A few weeks later one of the females was killed by two
new males who entered the area. Although this is sad in light of the dwindling
lion population in Africa, the project is still considered a success.
Experts on the topic suggest this event is probably a natural occurrence
in lion communities in the wild. Surprisingly little is actually known
about many aspects of lion social behavior.
To raise lions in a Boma for one year and have them not become habituated
is a remarkable accomplishment on Claus Mortensen's part. How well and
quickly they adapted to life in the wild makes it clear that Claus and
his team have accomplished something unprecedented and they deserve our
highest respect for all they have done. The other lioness is strong and
healthy, killing zebras and feeding herself. She is the real success!!
Amara is proud to have been a partner in the process.