Eastern Cape: Two new lionesses released into Addo Elephant National Park!

South African National Parks (SANParks) has announced the release of two newly introduced lionesses into the Main Camp/Colchester area of Addo Elephant National Park on 03 March 2025.
The two-and-a-half-year-old sisters were transferred from the !Khamab Kalahari Reserve, located on the southeastern edge of the Kalahari in the North West Province, in December 2024. After spending time acclimating in a boma within the park, they have now been set free.
These lionesses bring valuable genetic diversity to Addo Elephant National Park's lion population, contributing to a stronger and healthier gene pool. The park is currently home to five other lions in the game viewing area, with an additional three residing in the Nyathi section.
Both lionesses have been fitted with tracking collars, allowing rangers and researchers to monitor their movements, interactions with males and other predators, and hunting patterns. The data collected will help maintain a balanced lion population in relation to Addo Elephant National Park's size and prey availability. This initiative is part of a broader conservation strategy aimed at replicating natural processes that regulate lion social structures and population dynamics, including the exchange of individuals between parks to promote genetic diversity.