Lapalala Predator Research Program

Lapalala’s predator research program was launched in 2018, shortly after the re-introduction of lion and cheetah on the reserve. This multi-disciplinary initiative has already resulted in a multitude of projects investigating different aspects of Lapalala’s predator populations – including prey selection, activity patterns and ranging ecology. The data will give us greater insight into the species’ behaviour and ecology, which will help us to make well-informed management decisions. The broad aim of this program is to develop a better understanding of the ecology of reintroduced carnivores, particularly cheetah and lion, and to understand the mechanisms that structure prey communities (top-down vs. bottom-up).

Collaborators: Nelson Mandela University, University of Mpumalanga