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Ride for conservation

Ride for conservation

Date: 2014-07-11
iSimangaliso Wetland Park world heritage site's newly introduced lions underwent an innovative contraceptive procedure last week in line with the parks' conservation management strategy. The operations were the latest in the activities paid for by the park's Rare and Endangered Species Fund, using money raised during its Eco-Series events, primarily the iSimangaliso MTB 4 Day powered by Nashua which contributed over R100 000 in 2013's inaugural event.

The lion introductions which took place in December 2013 in the uMkhuze section formed part of the park's overall vision to restore all of the historically occurring species (the last lion recorded in uMkhuze was shot 44 years previously).

An eventual total of nine individuals were introduced as a founder group. Due to lions' high breeding rate and in order to avoid future problems of overpopulation within a fenced conservation area, a partial contraceptive method referred to as a unilateral hysterectomy was undertaken with three of the females. This fairly new experimental procedure has previously been done on several occasions in recent years by Dr Mike Toft (seen in this photo) in lions and other mammal species, and should result in half of the usual number of offspring being born. The technique has shown good results, including lionesses operated on two years ago that have produced 1-2 cubs as opposed to 4-5 cubs per litter.

Grand plans are afoot in iSimangaliso for the next and final of the park's original species to be introduced - eland. As the Eco-Series events gain momentum, more funds are raised which are exclusively dedicated to protection, monitoring and reintroduction of rare or endangered species.

There is still time to be part of this great venture. Adventurous mountain bikers are urged to grab the last few team places available in the most exciting and unique ride to arrive on the South African MTB scene, encompassing some 270 km of many of the most pristine parts of iSimangaliso, allowing riders to experience seven of the 332,000 hectare park's eco-systems, as well as adjoining conservation areas Phinda Private Game Reserve, Hluhluwe River Lodge and Bonamanzi Game Reserve. Participants are promised an unbeatable experience in big game country, possible encounters with wildlife such as elephant, rhino, lion or hippo in some of the country's wildest landscapes and breathtaking natural beauty.

From the heights of the stunning Lebombo Mountains, to the coastal plains and finish line at Lake St Lucia Estuary mouth, this ride has it all. "For serious mountain bikers, there is everything you could possibly wish for," says iSimangaliso CEO, Andrew Zaloumis. But he adds that "this is not a race to see who can finish first; it's a ride experience for those who understand the privilege of exploring this unique area in an extraordinary way - and riders will know that they are making real and tangible contributions to the world heritage site".