Understanding the Population Dynamics of Lions Across the Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) in Tanzania is a vital component of the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to one of the largest lion populations, including a high-density group within the Ngorongoro Crater. The NCA also supports a rich and diverse ecosystem, with 1.5 million wildebeest migrating during the rainy season, and is inhabited by around 100,000 people, who have traditionally coexisted with wildlife. However, human-lion conflict, driven largely by retaliatory killings after livestock attacks, has contributed to a decline in lion populations and disrupted the vital connectivity between the Crater’s isolated lion population and the wider Serengeti ecosystem. The LRF is supporting KopeLion in conducting an annual lion survey in 2025 aimed at estimating lion density, abundance, and population trends over time. This survey will significantly enhance monitoring efforts across the NCA, providing a clearer understanding of lion recovery, population dynamics, and connectivity within this critical landscape. The data collected will be instrumental in assessing the effectiveness of ongoing conservation strategies, guiding informed decision-making, and ensuring the long-term success of lion conservation in the Greater Serengeti Ecosystem.