LIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA S MAASAI MARA · This model is an adoption of the Ol Pejeta model...

LIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA

EARTHWATCH 2019

READ THIS EXPEDITION BRIEFING THOROUGHLY. It provides the most accurate information available at the time of your Earthwatch scientist’s project planning, and will likely answer any questions you have about the project. However, please also keep in mind that research requires improvisation, and you may need to be flexible. Research plans evolve in response to new findings, as well as to unpredictable factors such as weather, equipment failure, and travel challenges. To enjoy your expedition to the fullest, remember to expect the unexpected, be tolerant of repetitive tasks, and try to find humor in difficult situations. If there are any major changes in the research plan or field logistics, Earthwatch will make every effort to keep you well informed before you go into the field.

IMMEDIATELY• Make sure you understand and agree to

Earthwatch’s Terms and Conditions and the Participant Code of Conduct.

• If you plan to purchase additional travel insurance, note that some policies require purchase at the time your expedition is booked.

6 MONTHS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION• Login at earthwatch.org to complete your

participant forms.• If traveling internationally, make sure your passport

is current and, if necessary, obtain a visa for your destination country.

• Bring your level of fitness up to the standards required (see the Project Conditions section).

90 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION• Pay any outstanding balance for your expedition.• Book travel arrangements (see the Travel Planning

section for details).• Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations for

your project site.

60 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION• Review the packing list to make sure you have all the

clothing, personal supplies, and equipment needed.

30 DAYS PRIOR TO EXPEDITION• Leave the Earthwatch 24-hour helpline number with

a parent, relative, or friend.• Leave copies of your photo ID and flight reservation

number with a parent, relative, or friend.

PLANNING CHECKLIST

PLANNING CHECKLIST

1LIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA 2019

TABLE OF CONTENTSNOTE FROM THE PI ........................................ 2

THE RESEARCH .............................................. 4

DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELD ............................... 6

ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOOD ...................... 8

PROJECT CONDITIONS ................................. 10

POTENTIAL HAZARDS ..................................11

HEALTH & SAFETY ....................................... 12

TRAVEL TIPS ................................................ 13

TRAVEL PLANNING ...................................... 14

EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST ............. 16

PROJECT STAFF ........................................... 17

RECOMMENDED READING ........................... 18

EMERGENCY NUMBERS ............................... 20

LIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA 20192

Over the past six years with hard work, enthusiasm, and the support of Earthwatch volunteers, we have been able to uncover a number of important findings. Our research and monitoring has contributed to predator conservation efforts in Laikipia county and national strategies for protecting predators, as well as management decisions within Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

In 2018, we changed our field site to Olare Motorogi Conservancy (OMC) in Maasai Mara, Kenya. Earthwatch volunteers will monitor predator prey dynamics within OMC which covers 15,200 hectares of private land that has been consolidated to form the conservancy by 277 landowners. The conservancy is a mosaic of habitats including prime grasslands, riverine forests, and Acacia woodlands. The conservancy landowners recently adopted a holistic approach to grazing and pasture management; an approach that is not far removed from the traditional Maasai system where elders decide which areas are grazed and which are left for leaner times. This model is an adoption of the Ol Pejeta model (former research site) where the landowners control-graze a small area in a tight formation with their herds before moving on to the next designated area.

Working together with OMC management, we will gather information that is critical to understanding the interactions between large carnivores, the many hoofed prey species on which they feed, and cattle. Our overarching goal is to understand how cattle influences predator-prey dynamics. Therefore we are investigating how the behavior and numbers of predators influence, and are influenced by the populations of their prey. With your continued support, we can continue to take steps towards promoting coexistence of people and wildlife within this amazing ecosystem.

Please read this briefing for essential information to prepare you for your expedition.

Sincerely,Caroline Ng’weno, Jake Goheen and Martin Mulama

NOTE FROM THE PIDEAR EARTHWATCHER

HEAD 1HEAD 2


THE STORYOn this expedition, you’ll participate in research that attempts to positively influence populations of diminishing African savanna wild herbivores through the controlled use of cattle grazing lands. African savannas rely on grazing by large mammalian herbivores to create and maintain their characteristic tree-grass mixtures. In the Greater Mara Ecosystem, Kenya, domestic cattle graze alongside wild ungulates like elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many species of antelopes. Here, conservancies, tribal groups, and their livestock share the landscape with wildlife.

With wildlife tourism generating revenue for Maasai Mara communities, many conservancy managers and landowners are faced with the challenge of maintaining viable populations of large carnivores and their ungulate prey. Lions and other large carnivores are particularly appealing to tourists, and require conservation in a manner that minimizes livestock losses—a major source of income for the local communities. Earthwatch scientists Caroline Ng’weno, Martin Mulama, and Jake Goheen have devised an experimental approach, which will attempt to achieve this goal.

RESEARCH AIMSHerbivores like cattle, zebras, and species with more fragile populations, help maintain a mix of trees and grasses on the savanna. Large herbivores maintain savanna ecosystems by allowing both trees and grasses to thrive. Previous observations suggest that zebras have a fondness for areas where cattle have grazed. But can cattle actually attract zebra? The data you collect on herbivore abundance can help answer this question.

Researchers also already know that zebras are the most common lion meal. So the next question is: do lions and other predators that eat zebras hunt where these striped ungulates are most abundant, or where prey of all kinds is easiest to catch? If it’s the former, as these researchers suspect, lions should follow the zebras to those greener cattle pastures.

If the first two hypotheses turn out to be true—that zebras follow cows and predators follow zebras—one question still remains—will moving cattle strategically to attract zebras help the more rare herbivores survive (hartebeest and topi). This could be possible: the declining species tend to congregate in smaller, more sedentary herds than zebras, which makes them easier to catch than zebras if they’re in the same area.

THE RESEARCHLIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA



You can provide the observational power to discover how this experiment will actually unfold. Help be part of a strategy that could strengthen predators, prey, and the people of Kenya who depend on tourism and livestock.

HOW YOU WILL HELPYou will have the opportunity to participate in a unique experiment at the Olare Motorogi Conservancy in Maasai Mara, Kenya. Your research tasks will include:

• CHARACTERIZE BOMA SITES: Volunteers will also help to find and characterize glades: nutrient-rich hotspots derived from abandoned boma (“boma” refer to actively used corrals) that attract wild ungulates. Bomas receive a concentration of nutrients from cattle dung, subsequently promoting more grass than non boma areas. Data collected will facilitate a better understanding of whether zebras are attracted to bomas, and in turn, whether lions follow zebra to their feeding grounds.

• PRIDE MONITORING: Despite being one of the most iconic ecosystems on earth, little research has been carried out on large predators in the Mara. Therefore, the volunteers will support OMC rangers. While carrying out scheduled activities, volunteers are encouraged to record all sightings of large predators, and take quality photos to help in creating OMC lion profiles. The robust dataset will be used to assess population demographics, distribution and trends of these charismatic species.

• HERBIVORE DISTANCE SAMPLING SURVEY: You will locate lion prey on the eight predetermined transects from ground surveys. Using a binocular, GPS, compass and rangefinder, you will record species, age and sex structure of herds to understand the density and spatial distribution of large carnivore prey.

• CAMERA TRAPPING OF LARGE CARNIVORES: Except for lions and hyenas, other large carnivores like, wild dogs and leopards are elusive and occur in lower densities. Therefore, we will install infrared cameras to monitor them. You will help deploy and service the camera traps in the field and later download and inspect these images to match the animals to individuals in the field database. You will also help with general data entry, and review camera trap photos each day.

• RADIO-TELEMETRY: We plan to collar some lion prides and are currently in the process of sourcing funding for the collars. Collar data will facilitate understanding of survival, resource use, movement ecology and connectivity. Additionally, radio-telemetry data will be used to investigate dispersal in lions and cheetahs. Understanding dispersal of large carnivores from protected areas into surrounding landscapes is critical to their conservation in an increasingly fragmented landscape. In the meantime we are working closely with OMC rangers and guides within the conservancy to collate a detailed database of prides within OMC. This task is contingent on successfully collaring lions.

• PREDATION SITE INVESTIGATION—CLUSTER ANALYSIS: Once we are successful in collaring lions, you will will identify potential lion kill sites from GPS data having ≥ 2 points that are, < 200 m apart. You will search the site for evidence of predation by large carnivores. Once you locate the kills from the clusters, you will characterize the kill sites to identify landscape features that are associated with locations of where specific large carnivores (lions, cheetahs and wild dogs) are likely to kill their prey. As above, this task will be contingent on successfully collaring lions.

• KIDS FOR CONSERVATION: We understand that our neighboring communities are the most significant stakeholders in our predator conservation efforts. As such, we are committed in promoting conservation education. Together with volunteers, we will visit one of the schools neighboring OMC to raise awareness of the plight of large carnivores. During the set day, we will also interact and inspire the children on the value of conserving wildlife through sharing fun facts about wildlife and also engage in interactive games. We encourage the volunteers to bring their energy in organizing outdoor games and other competitive games with conservation themes. Through such an initiative, the children will become ambassadors to the local communities given change in mindset following understanding of our conservation efforts. In the past previous volunteers have brought with them pens, pencils, notebooks and story books which we use as prizes for children who take part in the activities.

DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELDYou’ll spend your days in the midst of the wildlife-rich conservancy, observing zebras and other herbivores and tracking lions with radio telemetry and camera traps. As cattle grazing spots are established and moved around, your team will follow the herds to assess if and how the composition of animals around them changes. You’ll also traverse the conservancy to set up and collect camera traps, which capture images of predators and other animals that pass by them. You can expect to walk around two kilometers (1.2 miles) a day, always accompanied by an OMC ranger. Hiking will primarily take place during kill site and camera trap activities.

You’ll also spend some time at Garden Cottages camp in the heart of the Greater Mara each day, entering data from your boma surveys, and herbivore demography. On many evenings you’ll have free hours to enjoy extra activities including; sorting camera trap images, bonfire discussion, sundowners, movie nights and guided bush walks around the camp. All these are a bid to learn more about the research and experience the amazing culture and diversity within the study site.

DAILY ACTIVITIESWeather and research needs can lead to changes in the daily schedule. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.

ITINERARYDAY 1: ARRIVALMeet team members at Olare Orok/ Ol Kiombo airstrip, drive to Garden Cottages, and settle into accommodations.DAY 2: INTRODUCTION AND TRAININGComprehensive safety briefing, introduction to research with hands on training (distance sampling, camera traps, CyberTracker, and large predator identification), and tour of Olare Motorogi Conservancy.DAYS 3–13: FIELDWORKIn the field, you will monitor large herbivores, predators and record data, search for potential kill sites, monitor hartebeest and topi demography, deploy and service camera traps and record spoors on the main tracks within the conservancy. You’ll also enjoy one full recreational day during this period. The recreational day will consist of either a visit to Maasai Mara Game Reserve/ Mara river or relax at the camp (NOTE: you will need to plan for your own transport. The field staff will be available to assist with planning, the cost $135 per person which includes gate entry and transport).DAY 14:Depart Mara in the morning based on travel itinerary to Olare Orok/ Ol Kiombo Airport.

DAILY SCHEDULE6:45 a.m.– 7:30 a.m. Breakfast8:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Fieldwork; radio telemetry, kill search,

distance sampling, camera trapping12:30 p.m.– 1:30 p.m. Break for lunch2:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m. Data entry, and more fieldwork

(if necessary).4:00 p.m.–5:00 p.m. Return and freshen up—data entry

from 4:00–5:00 p.m.5:00 p.m.– 6:00 p.m. Evening talks6:45 p.m.–8:00 p.m. Dinner8:00 p.m. Relax, movie night, sundowner, bonfire

and open discussion, time for bed.

DAILY LIFE IN THE FIELDPLANS FOR YOUR TEAM



SLEEPINGAccommodations will be at the Garden Cottages located at the edge of Olare Motorogi Conservancy. The Garden Cottages are close to the Mara River in the Southwest corner of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and OMC. The complex is formed by three connected houses and surrounded by a beautiful garden. Each house has a kitchen, a common area and a shared bathroom. All rooms are fitted with comfortable beds. Bedding and towels are provided and clothes can be washed by staff for a cost of 500 Kenyan Shillings for each load. This cost may change depending on changes in price inflation. Wash is done every three days and Staff will not wash socks or underwear, but volunteers can do so on their own during free time. Laundry is payable on departure. The accommodations are exclusively occupied by Earthwatch volunteers and field staff.

All volunteers are guaranteed a single room, however please contact Earthwatch directly incase of any special request like double rooms. NOTE: Most beds are large enough to accommodate couples, and other special room requests cannot be guaranteed and resolutions will be made upon arrival.

BATHROOMSAll bathrooms and have flush toilets and showers with hot water throughout the day. There are no restrictions on the number of showers that a volunteer can take, but all are encouraged to conserve water and energy. Soap and shampoo will be provided.

ELECTRICITYThe cottages have electricity that is supplemented with back-up generators. We ask volunteers to be conscious of their power use. The Garden Cottages outlets are U.K. plugs with three flat prongs (type G). Rooms have 240 volt outlets so all electronic appliances, including laptops, camera batteries, etc. can be charged. We recommend bringing an adapter/converter to prevent power surges, (e.g. for U.S. electronics that run on 120 volts).

PERSONAL COMMUNICATIONSLimited Wi-Fi is available at the accommodations, and phone reception is limited and occasionally unavailable. However, the project will make a trip at least once or upon urgent request to a nearby lodge where these amenities are available.

ACCOMMODATIONS AND FOODABOUT YOUR HOME IN THE FIELD


FACILITIES AND AMENITIESEach house has a common area and volunteers are welcome to enjoy the garden. The Mara River is a short walk from the accommodations and offers a nice view for sundowners.

DISTANCE TO THE FIELD SITEMost sites are a 25–30 minute drive from the accommodations. Some sites are further, up to 60 minutes from the accommodations.

FOOD AND WATERA chef will prepare hot meals, which will be served at the Garden Cottages dining area. Packed lunches will be prepared most days when the fieldwork extends beyond the lunch hour. The chef will oversee all arrangements, but you may need to help with either food preparation or clean up after meals.

The following are examples of foods you may find in the field. Variety depends on availability. We appreciate your flexibility.

TYPICAL MEALSBREAKFAST Eggs (scrambled or fried), bacon, toast, fruits,

cereals, juice, tea, and coffee.LUNCH Packed sandwiches, fruit and snacks. On

some days, Kenyan menu of beans, stews, vegetables and ugali, and chapati.

DINNER Pasta and sauce, roasted chicken and vegetables, curry, chapati and beans, fresh fruit, and a variety of local Kenyan food will be available after fieldwork.

SNACKS Chips and crackersBEVERAGES Water is available in a water dispenser at the

dining area. Tea and coffee are also available throughout the day.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUIREMENTSPlease alert Earthwatch to any special dietary requirements (e.g., diabetes, lactose intolerance, nut or other food allergies, vegetarian or vegan diets) as soon as possible, and note them in the space provided on your volunteer forms.

Vegetarian diets can be accommodated on this expedition. Unfortunately we cannot accommodate other dietary restrictions..


Maasai Mara is characterized by two rainy seasons; March to May (long rains) and October to December (short rains). Average precipitation is 1,400 milliliters of rainfall per year. Mara is quite rainy even from June to September during the Serengeti-Mara migration. Migrant species arrive in July, and then return in October when the season of the short rains begins in the Serengeti. So the Masai Mara doesn’t actually have a dry season, though it rains less from June to September, with July being the driest month. Temperatures are slightly higher from October to March, and cooler from June to August. At night it can be cold, and the temperature can drop below 10 °C (50 °F), especially from June to August.

GENERAL CONDITIONSThe following are averages. Please check weather resources for your team dates for more accurate weather predictions. Projects have experienced unseasonable weather at all times of year.

HUMIDITY: 60%–70% June-Oct with January being the least and May the most humidTEMPERATURE RANGE: 50º–80º FALTITUDE: 4,708 to 7,031 feet above sea levelRAINFALL: 27-56mL/month from June-Oct

ESSENTIAL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:All participants must be able to:

• Follow verbal and/or visual instructions independently or with the assistance of a companion.

• Enjoy being outdoors all day in all types of weather, including rain, heat, and humidity, in the potential presence of insects, snakes, and other wild animals

• Hike up to one kilometer per day over uneven terrain while carrying about 5-10kg of equipment

• Collect data (images, samples, etc.) and search for animal signs (scat, tracks) on the ground while moving over uneven terrain and steering clear of obstacles such as animal holes and sharp branches

• Get low enough to the ground for extended periods of time to measure plants, collect samples, and access camera traps

• Carry personal daily supplies such as water, and some small field equipment

• Get up into and down out of a four-wheel-drive vehicle, minibus, or car and ride seated with seatbelt fastened

• Ride, seated, for extended periods (up to three hours a day) in a four-wheel-drive vehicle in tight quarters. Much of the research will be conducted from the project vehicles, with the exception of the lion kill-site work.

• Be alert and ready to take evasive action (running quickly, returning to the project vehicle, lying flat on the ground, depending on the situation) if the guard advises it (e.g. if there is dangerous wildlife close by)

PROJECT CONDITIONSTHE FIELD ENVIRONMENT


POTENTIAL HAZARDSLIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA


HAZARD TYPE ASSOCIATED RISKS AND PRECAUTIONSTransportation We may encounter poor road conditions and landslides. Only qualified drivers will transport volunteers in

project vehicles; we ensure project vehicles are well maintained. Seatbelts must be worn at all times. Volunteers are not permitted to drive.

Hiking You’ll likely traverse uneven terrain and hike uphill in humid tropical conditions. There is a risk of sprains, strains, or breaks due to falling or tripping. You should never walk ahead of the guide, and should follow the guide’s instructions. Wear appropriate footwear while hiking.

Animals/Plants Many potentially dangerous animals are present in the area, including rhinos, several venomous snake species (cobra, mamba, puff adder), lions, buffalos, hippos, baboons, chimpanzees, leopards, scorpions, and elephants. Risks and precautions will be discussed on site. Those with phobias of wildlife (including arachnids and reptiles) should reconsider their participation.

There are also two species of ticks in the area: smaller red “pepper” ticks and larger black ones. The large black ticks are vectors for tick bite fever. Bring long pants and high boots, and use insect repellent with 20% DEET or more (100% is not necessary).

Climate/Weather Dehydration, heat exhaustion, sunburn, and other heat-related illnesses can occur, but you can protect yourself by drinking sufficient water, wearing high-SPF sunscreen, and wearing appropriate clothing. Dehydration from sweating can be a problem; please bring your own water bottles that you can easily carry and refill them with electrolyte-replacement packets.

Because of the high humidity, people who use a hearing aid device may find it doesn’t work properly. Consider purchasing a hearing aid dehumidifier.

High Altitude Good physical fitness (primarily cardiovascular health) can prevent altitude sickness; however, even some people in great physical condition can experience negative effects from high altitude. Volunteers should stay hydrated as much as possible.

Personal Security The project site is secure, but avoid areas designated as off limits by project staff.Distance from Medical Care

It may take six hours or more to arrange transport and travel to a fully equipped hospital. If you have a chronic condition, which could require immediate medical care (e.g., heart conditions, kidney problems, severe asthma, etc.), or if you are pregnant, please discuss your participation on this expedition with Earthwatch.

Disease Diseases found in Africa include malaria, dengue fever, filariasis, leishmaniasis, onchocerciasis, African tick bite fever, trypanosomiasis, schistosomiasis, tuberculosis, and HIV. Traveler’s diarrhea also affects many international travelers. You can decrease your risk of many diseases by avoiding mosquito bites, practicing good hygiene, and drinking only bottled or filtered water when appropriate. Please see the CDC (cdc.gov) or WHO (who.int) websites for more information on these conditions and how to avoid them. If you feel ill once you return from your trip, make sure you inform your doctor that you have recently returned from a tropical region.

A few notes on vaccinations and treatment:

• MENINGITIS: Only the far northwestern part of Kenya is considered part of the meningitis belt; therefore, vaccination is not necessary for this project, but is recommended if you intend to travel to other parts of the country.

• RABIES: Rabies is present in Kenya, but exposure to rabies is very unlikely at the project site. Volunteers are advised to avoid contact with local dogs and cats and to speak with their physician about whether the rabies vaccine is recommended given the length of their stay in country and other activities they might be undertaking.

EMERGENCIES IN THE FIELDProject staff members are not medical professionals.

STAFF CERTIFIED IN SAFETY TRAINING: Caroline Ng’weno

STAFF CERTIFIED IN FIRST AID: Alfred Kibungei, Moro Saidimu, Pesi Nkutiti and Patrick Mbaabu

NEAREST MEDICAL CARE: Tenwek Mission Hospital is three hours away. The nearest fully equipped hospital in Nairobi is six to seven hours away, depending on traffic.

For emergency assistance in the field, please contact Earthwatch’s 24-hour emergency hotline number on the last page of this briefing. Earthwatch is available to assist you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week; someone is always on call to respond to messages that come into our live answering service.

IMMUNIZATIONS & TRAVEL VACCINATIONSPlease be sure your routine immunizations are up-to-date (for example: diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps, rubella and varicella) and you have the appropriate vaccinations for your travel destination. Medical decisions are the responsibility of each volunteer and his or her doctor, and the following are recommendations only. Visit the “Travel Assistance and Advice” page in your Earthwatch portal, cdc.gov or who.int for guidance on immunizations.

If traveling from countries or region where yellow fever is endemic, you must have a certificate of vaccination.

HEALTH & SAFETYLIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA



YOUR DESTINATIONLANGUAGE: Swahili, English

TIME ZONE: GMT/UTC +3.

LOCAL CURRENCY: Kenyan Shilling

PERSONAL FUNDS: Please convert the equivalent of 300 USD to Kenyan Shillings before you arrive for souvenirs, snacks, and possible activities on recreation day. It is best to convert currency upon arrival at the airport. NOTE: Tipping is not expected and discouraged. Tips are prepaid from your contribution.

COUNTRY AND PROJECT ENTRY REQUIREMENTSEntry visa requirements differ by country of origin, layover, and destination, and do change unexpectedly. For this reason, please confirm your visa requirements at the time of booking and, again, 90 days prior to travel. Please apply early for your visa (we recommend starting 6 months prior to the start of your expedition). Refunds will not be made for volunteers cancelling due to not obtaining their visa in time to meet the team at the rendezvous. You can find up to date visa requirements via the following site

www.travisa.com

Participants should apply for a TOURIST visa. Please note that obtaining a visa can take weeks or even months. We strongly recommend using a visa agency, which can both expedite and simplify the process.

Generally, passports must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry and a return ticket is required.

NOTE: You can also apply for a Kenyan visa on the eCitizen website. The electronic system is now fully in place, but it will still be possible to purchase a visa upon arrival at the airport in Nairobi for $50. Volunteers can use either method to acquire their visa. This information was accurate at the time this briefing was printed. Please confirm with your local embassy that this method is still possible.

CONTACT INFORMATIONYou may be required to list the following contact information on your visa application and immigration form, or if your luggage does not make it to baggage claim at your destination:

Dr. Martin MulamaWWF KenyaP. O. Box 62440 - 00200Nairobi KENYATel: +254 733733053

TRAVEL TIPSSUGGESTIONS FOR THE ROAD

TRAVEL PLANNINGRENDEZVOUS AND DEPARTURE INFORMATION


COMPLETE TRAVEL INFORMATION IS NOT INCLUDED IN THIS PUBLIC VERSION OF THE BRIEFING..

Please find the complete briefing, available only to project participants, in your Earthwatch Portal. The version in your Portal will include all of the travel information for you to book appropriate

flights. Please DO NOT book flights without referring to this information.



EXPEDITION PACKING LISTWHAT TO BRING

GENERAL• This expedition briefing• Your travel plans, rendezvous details, and Earthwatch’s

emergency contact information• Photocopies of your passport, flight itinerary, and credit

cards in case the originals are lost or stolen; the copies should be packed separately from the original documents

• Passport and/or visa (if necessary)• Certification of vaccination (if necessary)• Documentation for travel by minors (if necessary)

CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR FIELDWORKNOTE: Bring clothes you don’t mind getting very dirty and potentially ruining• 2–3 lightweight, quick-drying, long-sleeved shirts

(neutral colors like greys or tans are best)• 2–3 pairs of shorts• 2–3 pairs of sturdy work pants• 4–5 T-shirts (quick drying fabric is ideal)• 1–2 flannels, sweatshirts or fleeces• Quick-drying long pants• Wide-brimmed sun hat• Raincoat• Rain pants• Comfortable sneakers (for days when research

is conducted from vehicles)• Waterproof hiking boots that are well worn and broken

in with good ankle support (for checking camera traps and for conducting kill site research).

• Light Scarf (for dust)• Light jacket (Weather can be cold in the mornings

and evenings, so layers are necessary)

CLOTHING/FOOTWEAR FOR LEISURE• At least one set of clothing to keep clean for end

of expedition• Comfortable shoes and or sandals

FIELD SUPPLIES• Small daypack to keep your personal items together

and dry• Two one-liter water bottles• High-SPF sunscreen (30 or higher)• Insect repellent spray

• Sunglasses with UV protection• Pocket knife (e.g., Swiss Army brand or Leatherman)

packed in your checked luggage (NOT your carry-on)• Binoculars (8x40 are fine for most mammal and bird

watching purposes and are not too heavy)

BEDDING AND BATHING• Linens, blankets, pillows, and towels will be provided

by the project.

PERSONAL SUPPLIES• Personal toiletries (biodegradable soaps and shampoos

are encouraged)• Antibacterial wipes or lotion (good for cleaning hands

while in the field)• Personal first aid kit (e.g., anti-diarrhea pills, antibiotics,

antiseptic, itch-relief, pain reliever, bandages, blister covers, etc.) and medications

• Spending money• Extra pairs of socks

OPTIONAL ITEMS• Comfortable shoes to change into after conducting

fieldwork• Laptop• Bathing Suit— there is a pool near the accommodations

that costs 600 Kenyan shillings to use• Books, games, art supplies, etc. for free time and to

bring for the community day when visiting schools• Travel guide• Workout clothes in case you want to exercise by the

accommodations during downtime• Swahili pocket dictionary/phrasebook• Camera, film or memory card(s), extra camera battery• Hardware for sharing digital photographs at the end of

the expedition• Dry bag or plastic sealable bags (e.g. Ziploc) to protect

equipment like cameras from dust, humidity, and water• Books, games, art supplies, etc. for free time• Earplugs for light sleepers

NOTE: Do not bring more luggage than you can carry and handle on your own. If traveling by air and checking your luggage, we advise you to pack an extra set of field clothing and personal essentials in your carry-on bag in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

EXPEDITION PACKING CHECKLIST

NOTE: The specific staff scheduled to run your team is subject to change.

CAROLINE NG’WENO holds a PhD in Zoology, a MPhil. in Environmental Studies and a BSc. in Education Science. Caroline brings a holistic view of how science can be applied for practical conservation success. Her research interests span a broad range of topics focusing on the ecology of African savannas, particularly predator-prey interactions, human-wildlife coexistence, and the advancement of human livelihoods and quality of life through education. She aspires to foster appreciation for wildlife by engaging local communities through education, outreach, and by developing science-based solutions to guide conservation actions. She also supports capacity building and mentoring of university students through collaborations with local and international universities, as well as the Earthwatch Institute. Present on all teams.

JACOB GOHEEN, a professor at the University of Wyoming, is an animal ecologist with broad research interests in community dynamics and structure, animal-plant interactions, and conservation biology. He enjoys linking theory with data, and strives to address important ecological concepts while remaining grounded in empiricism. He has long-standing professional and personal interests in the ecology, conservation, and natural history of mammals. Not present on any of the teams, but provides technical advice.

MARTIN MULAMA, is a conservation biologist from WWF Kenya. He previously worked for the Kenya Wildlife Service where, in his final six years, he was the senior scientist heading the National Rhino Programme. Martin has specialized training in many aspects of natural resource conservation and management. He joined the Ol Pejeta Conservancy as the chimpanzee sanctuary manager and technical advisor in March 2006, and was promoted to the position of chief conservation officer in October 2010. May be present on at least one of the teams.

ALFRED KIBUNGEI, received his Bachelors of Science in Statistics from Meru University of Science and Technology in 2015. He is currently the project coordinator, working closely with Dr. Caroline Ng’weno to study predator- prey dynamics in the presence of cattle in Kenya. Alfred is a specialist in data analysis, making inferences about hartebeest demography, lion population dynamics, resource selection and habitat utilization by animals. He prepares schedules, field guide materials and helps in coordination of project activities. He is knowledgeable and passionate about ecological research and wildlife population dynamics. Present on all teams.

PATRICK MBAABU, received his Diploma in Wildlife Management from Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute in 2013. He is currently the project team leader, and keeps everything running smoothly. Patrick oversees the logistics of our field activities and is a specialist in deploying camera traps and also sighting large carnivores. He leads most of the project activities and passionate of being outdoors. With his diverse skills he is an asset to our project. Present on all teams.

FRIDAH WAMBUI MUNENE, received her Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies and Community Development from Kenyatta University in 2017. As an emerging conservationist, Fridah will provide administrative and technology support on all teams. Friday is an expert in local species and also has a vast knowledge of the local communities. She is responsible for coordinating the project’s education and outreach activities to promote conservation and coexistence with large carnivores. Present on all teams.

PROJECT STAFFYOUR RESOURCES IN THE FIELD


RECOMMENDED READINGYOUR RESOURCES AT HOME


BOOKS• Ryszard Kapuscinski. The Shadow of the Sun• Paul Theroux. Dark Star Safari

FIELD GUIDES• Jonathan Kingdon. Field Guide to African Mammals• Dale A. Zimmerman et.al. Birds of Kenya and

Northern Tanzania• Richard D. Estes et.al. The Behavior Guide to

African Mammals

RESEARCH PUBLICATIONS• Ng’weno, C.C., Maiyo, N.J., Ali, A.H., Kibungel, A.K.,

and Goheen, J.R. 2017. Lions influence the decline and habitat shift of hartebeest in a semiarid savanna. J ournal of Mammalogy.

SOFTWARE USED FOR RESEARCH• CyberTracker (https://www.cybertracker.org:

for those that would like to become more familiar with it)

PROJECT-RELATED WEBSITE• http://www.kenyawildlifetrust.org/• goheenresearchgroup.com/index.php/research- group/

item/caroline-ngweno.html? category_id=1

EARTHWATCH SOCIAL MEDIA• FACEBOOK: facebook.com/Earthwatch• TWITTER: twitter.com/earthwatch_org• INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/earthwatch• BLOG: https://blog.earthwatch.org/• YOUTUBE: youtube.com/earthwatchinstitute

RESOURCES


NOTESLIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA’S MAASAI MARA

EMERGENCY NUMBERSAROUND-THE-CLOCK SUPPORT


EMERGENCY NUMBERS NOT INCLUDED IN THIS PUBLIC VERSION

OF THE BRIEFING.

The version in your Portal will include all ofthe necessary emergency numbers..

MESSAGE FROM EARTHWATCHDEAR EARTHWATCHER,Thank you for joining this expedition! We greatly appreciate your decision to contribute to hands-on environmental science and conservation. It is volunteers like you who fuel our mission and inspire our work.

While at Earthwatch, I’ve had the opportunity to field on a few expeditions, most recently in Kenya with one of my daughters. Each expedition has touched me deeply, and made me proud to be able to roll up my sleeves alongside my fellow volunteers and contribute to such meaningful work.

As an Earthwatch volunteer, you have the opportunity to create positive change. And while you’re out in the field working toward that change, we are committed to caring for your safety. Although risk is an inherent part of the environments in which we work, we’ve been providing volunteer field experiences with careful risk management and diligent planning for nearly 45 years. You’re in good hands.

If you have questions as you prepare for your expedition, we encourage you to contact your Earthwatch office. Thank you for your support, and enjoy your expedition!

Sincerely,

Scott Kania President and CEO, Earthwatch

CONNECT WITH OTHER

EARTHWATCHERS! FIND US ON FACEBOOK

AT FACEBOOK.COM/ EARTHWATCH OR ON TWITTER

@EARTHWATCH_ORG, AND ON YOUTUBE AT YOUTUBE.COM/

EARTHWATCHINSTITUTE

Earthwatch U.S. 1380 Soldiers Field Rd.Suite #2700 Boston, MA 02135United States

[email protected] earthwatch.org

Phone: 1-978-461-0081 Toll-Free: 1-800-776-0188 Fax: 1-978-461-2332

Earthwatch Europe Mayfield House 256 Banbury Rd. Oxford, OX2 7DE United Kingdom


Phone: 44-0-1865-318-838 Fax: 44-0-1865-311-383

Earthwatch Australia Suite G–07, Ground Floor 60L Green Building, 60–66 Leicester Street Carlton VIC 3053, Australia


Phone: 61-0-3-9016-7590 Fax: 61-0-3-9686-3652

Earthwatch Japan Food Science Bldg. 4F The University of Tokyo 1-1-1, Yayoi, Bunkyo-ku Tokyo 113-8657, Japan


Phone: 81-0-3-6686-0300 Fax: 81-0-3-6686-0477

mailto:[email protected]

http://earthwatch.org





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LIONS AND THEIR PREY IN KENYA S MAASAI MARA · This model is an adoption of the Ol Pejeta model...

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