Masai Mara – more than just game viewing

There are not many people who have not heard of the Masai Mara Game Reserve for its incredible game viewing, abundance of wildlife, large lion populations and the Great Wildebeest Migration, after all it was just voted again as Africa’s premium game park.

However not many know, the Masai Mara Game Reserve hosts a number of vital research projects that are contributing to the conservation of several species globally. Some of the well-known research projects include hyena, lion, cheetah and elephant. The research is not just about the life span, reproductive cycles and behaviour of the species but also looks at human-wildlife interaction, impact of agricultural and grazing as well the impact of tourism on specific species.

This research is vital to understanding how we as humans impact on a species. The more we understand the better we can manage and act to protect species. This recognises the importance of finding ways for humans, who often impact negatively on a species or several species, to co-habitat in a way which protects and supports resident wildlife.

So next time you are game driving and stop to watch a pride of lions hunting, cheetahs sunning themselves in the warm winter sun, hyenas roaming the savannah or elephants taking a mud bath, stop to think that out there, somewhere, vital information is being gathered ensuring these animals are around for generations to come.

Check out www.africaexpeditionsupport.com or email info@africaexpeditionsupport.com for more information.