A Framework for the Ex Situ Reintroduction of the African Lion (Panthera leo)

by Open Science Repository Natural Resources and Conservation
(July 2013)

Abstract

Ex situ reintroduction continues to spark controversy in conservation science and practice, and is often treated as a method of last resort. Some argue that this strategy should now be weighed alongside existing in situ approaches for the African lion (Panthera leo). The swift decline of this culturally significant species reflects the pressures a growing human population and its activities place on the lion. Published assessments of reintroductions across animal groups reveal generally low survival rates, especially when released animals are captive-bred. In this paper we examine factors behind both failed and successful captive-bred reintroductions and revisit earlier ex situ attempts to return the African lion to the wild. Although past releases of captive lions are largely absent from the scientific literature, they hold valuable lessons for future efforts. We set out a framework for ex situ reintroduction of the lion grounded in scientific guidance and prior endeavours.

Keywords: ex situ reintroduction, African lion (Panthera leo), conservation, release.

Full text

A Framework for the Ex Situ Reintroduction of the African Lion (Panthera leo)