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These cats, which are both males, arrived in the Park in March 2014 and were kept in a boma to acclimatise to the new surroundings and strengthen the bond with one another. Their translocation followed on the two male lions that were trans-located to Marakele National Park in 2013 from Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and Pilanesberg Nature Reserve respectively. “Although this will increase the lion population in the park, the main aim is to diversify the gene pool” said Johan Taljaard, Park Manager at Marakele.

Equally exciting as the translocation of these four lions to the park, was the arrival of four lion cubs last December, which brings the total number to 23. Apart from the translocation of lions, eleven buffalo were trans-located late last year and another ten earlier this year with two buffalo calves arriving at the start of summer, which brings the total buffalo complement to 38. “We trust that these developments in the park will continue to make Marakele National Park the favourite destination of choice” concluded Taljaard.

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South African National Parks (SANParks) Northern Region Communications
Tel: 012 426 5403

Enquiries

Divhani Maremba
SANParks Regional Communications Manager: Northern Region
Tel: 012 426-5403; Cell: 074 588 5789
Email: [email protected]