Lion Populations In Ugandan Parks Down 40% In Ten Years - Mongabay

[hatrack]

Lion populations across Uganda's park system have declined 40 percent in less than a decade, according to the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).

The results, based on the country's first ever carnivore survey, indicate that bushmeat poaching remains a problem in one of Africa's most biodiverse countries. Hunters poach lion prey animals and kill lions as a perceived threat to their livestock.

WCS says it is working to develop alternative livelihood opportunities as incentives for poachers to abandon hunting in and around Uganda's national parks.

"Conserving Uganda’s last remaining lions is a global responsibility," WCS Senior Carnivore researcher Tutilo Mudumba said in a statement. "If we outlive this iconic African species, we will have to explain what has happened to future generations—that lions had no protection, that these wild animals were unfairly judged, and are no more."

EDIT

http://news.mongabay.com/2010/0819-lions_wcs.html

[maxsolomon]

1. too many humans, too much poverty, not enough agriculture

bushmeat & poaching will bring about the extinction of lions and great apes the way americans nearly wiped out grizzlies, cougars and wolves.

fewer humans, please.