Tree Climbing Lions. Where to Go for Tree-Climbing Lions Tracking in Uganda?

Of all the African wild animals, the lion is presumably the one that is most revered and feared. This is because it is a super predator that can consume the majority of the savannah wildlife through hunting. Undoubtedly among the big cats, tree-climbing lions are the least well-known. Except for their propensity for climbing trees, they are identical to all the other lions in every way.

A lion will typically lie under a tree for shade and to observe its prey. Tree-climbing lions are therefore extremely odd. There are only two “populations” of tree-climbing lions in the world, and they are both confined to East Africa.

Both the Ishasha region of Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park and Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park is home to tree-climbing lions. Because of this, these lions are sometimes referred to as the East African tree-climbing lions. On a very infrequent basis, lions have been spotted climbing trees in other parts of Africa, including Kluger, some regions of Kenya, and Kidepo National Park.

How and Why Lions Climb Trees?

These lions have developed a climbing adaptation for two presumptive reasons. To avoid being irritated by bugs and insects on the ground and to escape the Savannah heat by soaking up some breeze while basking on the branches. These arguments are strengthened by the observation that these tree-climbing lions remain on the ground at night and during rainstorms, both of which drive away insects, bugs, and heat.

There is no denying that basking in the trees aids them in keeping watch over their prey, even though the aforementioned explanations may be speculative. The majority of the time, grazing animals like antelopes, buffaloes, and other similar “lion food” serve as common prey.

Their ability to teach even their young cubs to climb trees is thought to be a behavioural adaptation that they have mastered. They do it with practice and majesty because of this.

They are such an uncommon species that there is no information or research on them; the only way to see them in person is to travel to the three countries. The King of the Jungle is neither widely known nor biologically designed for this. It’s amazing to watch as they climb up the branches and hug them as they rest.

Where to See Tree-Climbing Lions?

In Tanzania and Uganda, lions that can climb trees are found. On an African safari, a chance encounter could be spotted anywhere, but only in Tanzania’s Laka Manyara National Park and Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is a guaranteed encounter possible.

African Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is where you can find these unusual tree-climbing lions. More than 50 lions can be seen “lounging” all day in the acacia trees found in the Ishasa region, which is worth visiting.

Because of the surrounding trees and the colour of their skin, they are initially a little difficult to spot. But with the assistance of your tour guide, you can spot them dozing off on tree branches or gazing out into the wilderness. Watching the “big cat” hanging from the trees is truly amazing.

In the Ishasha sector, the Uganda kob is the most prevalent prey (food) that these lions consume. For the lions to hunt for food, the trees above provided a great vantage point.

Status of Conservation

Dangerously fewer climbing lions are present. These tree-climbing lions, as well as all lions in general, are most at risk from humans. For instance, in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park in April 2018, 11 dead lions were discovered. Due to poisoning, P, Uganda.

Encroachment on national parks for agricultural purposes, poaching, hunting, and the illegal wildlife trade are a few reasons why people continue to endanger lions. The responsible bodies put a lot of effort into halting poaching and encroachment, but the success of these efforts depends on a myriad of variables coming together in perfect harmony.

The collaboration of different stakeholders with the local communities toward a single conservation objective has so far been Uganda’s best method for conservation. While the work is ongoing and we all hope for better conservation results, the tree-climbing lions have not yet seen full success as a result.

Conclusion about Tree-Climbing Lions

Not what they eat or how their social structures are set up intrigues people about the tree-climbing lions, but rather how they differ from other lions. They have the same social, physical, dietary, and repopulation characteristics as all other wild lions.

As already mentioned, the theories about why they climb the tree are not supported. This is due to the obvious fact that lions are dangerous, and the only research you can conduct while keeping a very safe distance is observation. However, tree-climbing lions are a fascinating sight to see as they effortlessly and with practised grace carry their heavy bodies up the tree.

An individual’s experience of Queen Elizabeth National Park is greatly enhanced by seeing the lions in Ishasha. While you are still in Queen Elizabeth National Park, it is typical to go on a game drive to see all the other animals, take a boat ride on Kazinga Channel, search for some chimpanzees and other primates, as well as search for the lions that climb trees.

Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector

Ishasha lions should be included in your tour itinerary if you’re thinking about taking a safari through Uganda’s wildlife. We highly advise taking the time to enjoy it in person because it’s a fantastic experience.

Here are some safari programs that involve tracking these Ishasha tree-climbing lions as well as other associated activities. You may find these to be an excellent source of inspiration. Just keep in mind that Exclusive African Safaris offers free customization of all of their safari itineraries to fit your preferences, schedule, and financial constraints.

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