ਰੁੱਝੇ ਸੁਰੱਖਿਆ ਅਫਰੀਕਾ
ਪੜਚੋਲ ਕਰੋ। ਸੰਭਾਲੋ। ਰੁਝੇਵੇਂ
Our research projects
Lion Monitoring Project
Tracking the movement, behaviour, and dynamics of Mapungubwe Trans Frontier Conservation Area’s lions.
Overview:
Our flagship study investigates the presence, movement, and social dynamics of lion populations across the GMTFCA. Using camera traps, spoor tracking, and behavioural observation, students help gather data to support protection strategies for these apex predators.
Protocols & Methods:
• Camera trap grid design and data retrieval
• Spoor and scat transects
• Behavioural observations and activity budgets
Research Skills Gained:
• Wildlife tracking and data interpretation
• Data management and spatial mapping (QGIS)
• Behavioural recording and ethogram use
• Camera trap setup, maintenance, and analysis
Transferable Skills:
• Teamwork in remote field settings
• Scientific data collection and analysis
• Critical thinking and ecological problem-solving
Spotted Hyena Den Study
Monitoring den activity, cub development, and adult behaviour.
Overview:
This project investigates den site fidelity, cub emergence timing, and social structure in spotted hyena populations in the GMTFCA.
Protocols & Methods:
• Den identification via spoor and field signs
• Non-intrusive observation from fixed hides
• Behavioural data coding using standardised templates
Research Skills Gained:
• Ethological fieldwork
• Long-term data consistency
• Remote observation and interpretation
Transferable Skills:
• Patience and resilience in fieldwork
• Recording and analysing large behavioural datasets
• Problem-solving in unpredictable wildlife environments
Leopard Presence & Feeding Protocol Study
Investigating how novel game feeding practices influence leopard presence and behaviour.
Overview:
This project examines how changes in game feeding protocols impact leopard presence and behaviour across the study area. Students will use camera traps and ecological data collection to assess behavioural responses and habitat use near feeding sites.
Protocols & Methods:
• Design and deployment of camera trap experiments
• Monitoring at control and experimental feeding areas
• Behavioural analysis from camera trap footage
Research Skills Gained:
• Experimental design and variable control
• Statistical analysis of presence/absence data
• Remote camera trapping and behavioural categorisation
Transferable Skills:
• Field-based problem-solving
• Data interpretation and ecological reasoning
Camera Trap Protection Study
Investigating innovative methods to prevent elephant interference with research equipment.
Overview:
Elephants are known to damage or displace camera traps during field operations, resulting in data loss and equipment costs. This study evaluates different camera trap protection methods to determine which designs and materials best withstand elephant interaction. Students will take part in experimental setup, monitoring, and data collection to assess the effectiveness of each protection strategy.
Protocols & Methods:
• Testing various camera trap protection designs (metal casings, elevated mounts, natural camouflage)
• Monitoring and recording elephant interactions using video and GPS data
• Assessing damage rates, costs, and maintenance needs of each prototype
Research Skills Gained:
• Experimental design and comparative testing
• Field monitoring and data collection in active elephant areas
• Quantitative assessment of field equipment performance
Transferable Skills:
• Practical problem-solving in conservation settings
• Innovation and adaptive thinking under field constraints
• Data-driven evaluation and technical reporting
Slow Blinking Study in Lions
Comparing communicative behaviour between lions and domestic cats.
Overview:
Building on research in domestic cats, this micro-study investigates whether slow blinking serves a similar social function in lions, suggesting shared emotional communication patterns.
Protocols & Methods:
• Structured behavioural observation sessions
• Standardised ethogram for blink frequency and context
• Comparison to domestic cat data from literature
Research Skills Gained:
• Fine-scale behavioural observation and coding
• Statistical testing for behavioural frequency differences
• Comparative behavioural analysis
Transferable Skills:
• Attention to detail and data precision
• Research design and hypothesis testing
• Cross-species behavioural interpretation
