The death of Cecil the Lion last year brought lions to the forefront, but it’s important on this World Lion Day to note the decline in the lion population worldwide.
According to National Geographic, the lion population has fallen from approximately 450,000 in the 1940’s to as few as 20,000 currently.
Factors such as disease and loss of habitat and prey, along with growing human population have contributed to the decline in the number of lions.
Achieving balance between growing human population and protecting lions has been one of the largest challenges. Humans moving into what has been traditional lion habitat fear for the safety of themselves and their animals, while the lions search for food in an ever shrinking food chain.
The Big Cats Initiative, partnering with Panthera.org and Global Tiger Initiative aim to boost the lion (and other big cat) populations back to sustainable levels by encouraging efforts such as:
- Innovative projects with quick results for saving lions
- Anti-poaching programs
- Projects that test new technology
- Educational projects focused on community
- Projects that establish economic incentives for local people to ensure long-term survival of lions
There are many other organizations worldwide that are organizing fundraising events to spread awareness about the decline of the lion population.
Let’s do what we can on this World Lion Day, and every day, to ensure the lion remains King of the Jungle.
Written by Karen
