Genetic diversity of lion populations in Kenya: Evaluating past management practices and recommendations for future conservation actions.

The decline of lions () in Kenya has raised conservation concerns about their overall population health and long-term survival. This study aimed to assess the genetic structure, differentiation and diversity of lion populations in the country, while considering the influence of past management practices. Using a lion-specific Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) panel, we genotyped 171 individuals from 12 populations representative of areas with permanent lion presence.

Giraffe lineages are shaped by major ancient admixture events.

Strong genetic structure has prompted discussion regarding giraffe taxonomy, including a suggestion to split the giraffe into four species: Northern (Giraffa c. camelopardalis), Reticulated (G. c.

Effect of ecological and anthropogenic factors on grouping patterns in African lions across Kenya.

Social carnivores frequently live in fission-fusion societies, where individuals that share a common territory or home range may be found alone, in subgroups, or altogether. Absolute group size and subgroup size is expected to vary according to resource distribution, but for species that are susceptible to anthropogenic pressures, other factors may be important drivers. African lions () are the only truly social felid and lion prides are characterized by fission-fusion dynamics with social groups frequently splitting and reforming, and subgroup membership can change continuously and frequently.