The magnificent lion - considered by many to be an African symbol of strength, power and all that is wild. The stark reality is that Africa’s lions today are in serious trouble. In the last thirty years, lion populations in Africa may have fallen by as much as 75% and it is believed that as few as 25,000 lions now remain. If this alarming decline is allowed to continue unabated, lions may very soon be facing the same fate as Asia’s tigers – perilously close to extinction.
Unthinkable!
Without our help, wild lions are simply unable to cope with the seemingly endless barrage of threats. Indiscriminate poisoning, shrinking habitats, lack of prey species, trophy hunting, poaching and illegal trade, are all taking a heavy toll.
Despite concerted efforts by the Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya’s lions are also feeling the strain; an estimated 2,100 lions remaining. Urgent action must be taken to protect the remaining populations.
Born Free, on our 25th anniversary year, will be using funds raised from Pride of Kenya to conserve and protect wild lions in the spiritual home of Elsa the lioness. For example, human-wildlife conflict mitigation measures through construction of lion-proof bomas, are just one of the projects that Born Free intend to explore, in conjunction with the Kenya Wildlife Service and other stakeholders to help ensure that the land of Born Free remains a safe home for wild lions in the future.