The African continent has gained so much popularity because of its natural beauty, wildlife, minerals, fertile lands, suitable atmospheric conditions. But of them all, its nature has awed many people. Tourists across the globe have often visited Africa for its wild animals, more so the king of the jungle. People refer to lions as jungle lords because of their aggressive nature, strength, pride, and leader’s possible virtues.
The Love for Lions
George Logan, a British photographer, specializing in animal documentaries, fell in love with African lions when he set foot in the continent. To date, he spends most of his time taking pictures of the wild animals in Kenya, Ethiopia, Zambia, Malawi, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Tens of years down the line, and has made a collection of documentaries on his favorite animal species. He has and continues to gather knowledge on different types of lions.
One of his favorite shots is of Scarface. Mr. Logan describes Scarface as a proper wild survivor who has lived his life as a wild lion without being held captive in zoos, circuses, or as a pet. Mr. Logan also has a separate photography book from which he features pictures of big cats in their natural environment. The book, named Lion: Pride Before The Fall, aims to promote wild cats’ conservation. The book provides an exceptional understanding of lions.
Logan’s significant concern, however, is the rate at which these species are declining. Fifty years ago, there were up to 100000 lions on the continent. Nevertheless, the number has plunged to 20000. He says that if people continue harming the lions, then in the future, there will be none left; they will be reduced to extinction.
A glimpse of a lion never ceases to amaze. Often during wild drives, tourists marvel at the sight of lions from afar. That’s because lions are interesting wild species—however, it’s quite unfortunate when they are hunted down for material gains.
Hunting Should Stop
Wildlife encroachment is a devastating testament to the natural flora and fauna. These animals not only provide aesthetic value to our ecosystem but also balance the niche. It is quite unfortunate when humans fail to protect the most symbolic and iconic creatures. I mean, do hunters even have self-consciousness? Can they even care for their fellow humans, more so as they can’t even care for wildlife?
Those keeping lions as pets are also interfering with the nature of these animals. That’s because lions are designed for the wild, spectacularly unsuited for captivity. In the wild, the big cats can establish territories where they learn to protect themselves, unlike in the zoos, breeding centers, or private collections where people hold them in captivity. This practice contributes to lions being vulnerable to attacks. More so as life in captivity will differ substantially from life in the wild.
Hunting lions may result in their extinction. And that would tremendously impact Africa’s Economy. I mean, who would want to visit a jungle without a king? That shows how much the big cats can drive ecotourism in Africa. Endorsing wildlife conservation is a decision that needs to come from inside. Let’s demonstrate our unity by protecting the wild animals.
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