Social media reports of lions near Swakopmund

Tuesday 7 March 2023

During the past 24 hours rumours spread wildly on several social media platforms that three lions (with a collar) were spotted near Mile 14, approximately 20 km north of Swakopmund, and that they were heading towards the municipal area of Swakopmund. Desert Lion Conservation quickly verified that all of the satellite-collared lions were in their usual home ranges to the north of the Ugab River. After discussions with the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism, we went out to the area and surveyed a large section around Mile 14 (see map). There were no signs of lions moving in the area. A number of fresh brown hyaena tracks, however, were spotted. We remain on alert for any further evidence, but believe this is a false alarm. Possibly a rumour or story that was embellished with every time it was repeated and shared. Particularly because the photo that was associated with some reports, was taken by Desert Lion Conservation on 20 November in the vicinity of Torra Bay.

Map 1. The area around Mile 14 searched for lion tracks or any other signs.

Fresh brown hyena tracks near Mile 14

Photo of Xpl-108 near Torra Bay on 20 November 2022