A study examined the effects of a three-year trophy hunting moratorium (2013-2015) on lion populations in Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park and surrounding areas. Researchers monitored 386 lions from 2008 to 2015, collecting demographic data and using statistical models. Results showed significant increases in survival rates for subadult and adult males during the moratorium. The lion population grew from 116 in 2012 to 209 in 2015, with higher cub production. The male lion population increased, and the cub sex ratio became female-biased. The study concluded that hunting moratoria can effectively improve lion demographics. It recommended conservative quotas, age-based harvesting, rigorous monitoring, and expanding protected areas for sustainable lion conservation.
