Title: Research Analysis on Boldness and Natural Behaviors in the African Lion (Panthera leo): How Are

They Related?

The study conducted in Fall 2017 by Courtney M. Kamyk at the University of New Hampshire explores
the relationship between boldness and natural behaviors in African lions.

Objectives Of the Study

I. Assessment of Boldness: The primary objective is to measure and evaluate the boldness of
African lions. This involves observing their responses to various stimuli, potentially including
unfamiliar objects, sounds, or novel environments. The aim is to quantify individual variations in
boldness within the lion population.

II. Correlation with Natural Behaviors: Investigate the potential correlation between boldness
levels and the expression of natural behaviors in African lions. Natural behaviors may
encompass hunting, social interactions, territorial behaviors, and other activities intrinsic to the
species. Understanding how boldness influences these behaviors is a key objective.

III. Behavioral Observations: Conduct detailed observations of lion behavior in their natural
habitat. This involves extended periods of fieldwork to document various aspects of their daily
activities. The objective is to create a comprehensive catalog of behaviors exhibited by lions and
identify patterns or variations associated with bold individuals.

IV. Implications for Conservation: Explore the broader ecological implications of boldness in African
lions. Assess how variations in boldness might influence the species' adaptability, response to
environmental changes, and overall conservation status. Understanding the behavioral nuances
is crucial for developing effective conservation and management strategies.

Methods
a. Study Location and Population The research pride used for this study is known as the Dambwa
pride and it is managed by the African Lion and Environmental Research Trust (ALERT). the pride is
located within a 707 acre (2.9km2 ) fenced reserve within the Dambwa Forest, 8km from
Livingstone, Zambia (GPS: S 17°50'31".3' E 25°45'14".2', 900-1000m altitude). Vegetation type of the
site consists of 12 woodland, shrubland and some small grassland areas. The area's climate is -2.8-
40.6 °C with 779.8mm of precipitation annually. The pride is composed of six adults and six
offspring. The adults were born in captivity in 2008 and were used as walking lions in the Mosi-oa-
Tunya National Park in Livingstone, Zambia. They were released into the Dambwa release site in
 2011 and allowed to live and reproduce as a natural, wild pride. The first litter of offspring (mother:
RS, father: ZU) was born June 30th, 2013 and consists of one male (RS2) and two females (RS1, RS3).
The second litter (mother: LE, father: ZU) was born January 30th , 2014 and consists of one female
(LE2) and two males (LE1, LE3). During the study impala (Aepyceros melampus), puku (Kobus
vardonii), and duiker (Cephalophinae) were available as game species in the release site. The
research site when initially constructed also had waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus), wildebeest
(Connochaetes) and zebra (Equus quagga) available as prey species. It is the intention that these
offspring will be released into the wild when old enough, with the females released as a pride and
the males as a coalition in a different area to the females to prevent inbreeding. Data observations
took place from June 2nd -August 3rd 2017 during three observation sessions (0800-1100hr, 1230-
1400hr, 1430-1600hr).

Gathering of Data

To investigate the relationship between boldness and natural behaviors in the African lion (Panthera
leo), a comprehensive research methodology was employed. The study was conducted on the Dambwa
pride, managed by the African Lion and Environmental Research Trust (ALERT) in Livingstone, Zambia.

a. Species Composition:
The study identified various individuals within the Dambwa pride, including both male and female lions.
The pride consisted of six adults (three males and three females) and six offspring, representing a
diverse composition within the population.

b. Species Habitat:
The research focused on a 707-acre fenced reserve within the Dambwa Forest, characterized by
woodland, shrubland, and small grassland areas. This habitat provided a suitable environment for the
natural behaviors of the African lions.

c. Species Distribution:
Observations revealed that the lion pride utilized different parts of the reserve, indicating a varied
distribution pattern. The lions exhibited behaviors associated with territoriality and exploration
throughout the study area.

d. Species Population and Density:

The population of the Dambwa pride was carefully documented, highlighting the presence of both adult
and offspring lions. The density of lions in specific areas of the reserve was assessed to understand their
spatial distribution.

e. Biodiversity Index:
The biodiversity index was calculated based on the presence and interactions of different individuals
within the pride. Factors such as age, sex, and social interactions were considered to gauge the
biodiversity within the lion population.

f. Conservation Status of the Species:

The study provided insights into the conservation status of the African lion population in the Dambwa
reserve. By assessing the lions' behavior, interactions, and habitat use, researchers gained valuable
information contributing to the broader understanding of lion conservation.

Overall Findings:
The research revealed a correlation between boldness and specific natural behaviors in African lions.
Boldness scores were associated with individual reactions to playbacks, with appetitive and territorial
stimuli evoking distinct responses. Social interactions, daily activities, and boldness were
interconnected, suggesting a complex relationship between these factors in the Dambwa lion pride. The
findings contribute to our understanding of lion behavior and inform conservation efforts for this iconic
species.
 Reflection
The exploration of animal behavior, particularly in the context of the African lion, is a fascinating
endeavor. Lions, majestic and powerful, symbolize the wild spirit of the savannah. The research on
boldness and natural behaviors delves into the intricate dynamics of these magnificent creatures.
Understanding how boldness manifests in their interactions and influences their overall behaviors
provides valuable insights into the complexities of lion life.

The body of the research paints a vivid picture of the Dambwa pride, revealing the intricate details
of their habitat, social structure, and individual personalities. The meticulous observation of playbacks,
appetitive and territorial, unveils the nuanced responses of lions, showcasing a spectrum from bold
curiosity to territorial assertiveness. The sociograms, depicting social interactions, offer a visual narrative
of the pride's dynamics. The evident connections and variations in social behaviors underscore the
richness of their social lives.

The correlation between boldness and natural behaviors emerges as a central theme. Lions, it
appears, navigate their world with a balance of boldness and caution, influenced by environmental
stimuli and social dynamics. The research highlights the pivotal role of boldness in shaping interactions,
ultimately contributing to the pride's cohesion and functioning. The incorporation of daily activity
observations further deepens our understanding, portraying lions not just as predators but as beings
engaged in a dynamic tapestry of behaviors.

In conclusion, the research sheds light on the subtle yet profound interplay between boldness and
natural behaviors in African lions. The findings extend beyond the mere documentation of behaviors;
they unravel the threads that weave the fabric of lion society. As we reflect on these insights, it becomes
evident that boldness is not a singular trait but a dynamic force that influences how lions navigate their
environment and interact with one another.

This research is not just an academic pursuit; it serves as a window into the lives of these iconic
animals. The implications extend to conservation efforts, providing a more holistic understanding of the
factors influencing lion behavior in captivity and the wild. By recognizing the intricate dance of boldness
and natural behaviors, we are better equipped to appreciate and safeguard the natural heritage of the
African lion.