Effect of retaliatory killing on African lion coalitions in Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem, Tanzania

Abstract

In landscapes where people and lions coexist, conflicts are common due to livestock predation and threats to human safety. Retaliatory lion killing by humans is often a consequence of such conflicts. In Tarangire-Manyara Ecosystem (TME) lion population are threatened by retaliatory killing, but little is known how retaliatory killing affects lion social structure, particularly male coalitions. Fourteen years dataset of lion monitoring was used to map the spatial-temporal dynamics of male coalition. Lion killing data was used to assess the effects of retaliatory lion killing on the male coalitions for ten prides. Interviews on two hundred and fourteen respondents was used to assess the attitudes and awareness of the community on effects of retaliatory killing to lions. Lion coalitions were found larger and lasted for a longer tenure period in low-risk areas of retaliatory killing, and far from active hunting blocks. Twelves lions were killed for livestock loss, while fifteen attempts of lion killing were prevented. Attitude towards lion existence and conservation was positive for young people (18-35 years) compared to older age class. People with primary or secondary level of education were more likely to have lions killed if they attack livestock compared to people with no formal education. Community attitude on retaliation effect varied widely, as people perceptions depends on benefits/losses they incurred. This study showed retaliatory killing negatively affects long-term lion coalition and population. Also, recommends implementing better education programs and participatory conservation activities to protect the declining lion populations.