Supporting stable, healthy predator populations in the Greater Mara Ecosystem by providing scientific evidence for conservation action.
The Mara Predator Conservation Program (MPCP) operates on the fundamental truth that conservation cannot succeed in isolation. By combining scientific research with active community empowerment, the project works to protect the ecosystem’s most vulnerable predators while securing the livelihoods of the people who live alongside them.
Research efforts focus on the Mara’s three key predator species. The reserve supports one of Kenya’s most stable lion populations, with over 450 resident lions currently living within the protected areas. MPCP utilises GPS collars to track their movements, gaining vital data on spatial ecology and identifying potential conflict zones when prides move onto community land. Conversely, cheetah populations remain fragile, with fewer than 20 resident adults currently in the reserve; their decline is driven largely by habitat fragmentation, disturbance from tourism and competition with other predators. African wild dogs have been making a tentative comeback after a local extinction in the 1990s, necessitating new strategies to help them coexist with humans.
To foster this coexistence, the program actively implements mitigation measures to enhance livestock security. The introduction of recycled plastic pole bomas and chainlink fencing, coupled with predator-deterrent lights, has proven highly effective in preventing nighttime attacks. MPCP also regularly trains livestock herders in improved practices and supports a network of ‘Lion Ambassadors’—community members who monitor predator movements and alert authorities to conflicts. This network also serves as a rapid-response team to curb the threat of wildlife poisoning, which endangers all predators, including vultures.
Collaring Kito from the Marsh Pride
Tracking collared lions
Creating lion ID databases
Monitoring collared lion movements using GPS tracking technology
Kito
Sample collection
Data collection in the field
A livestock herders training session
Collaring Jua from the Topi pride
Governors’ Camp Collection is proud to be a long-term partner in this mission. We actively support the team’s logistics by providing complimentary seats on Governors’ Aviation aircraft, ensuring they can move efficiently between conservation sites. Our financial contributions have facilitated the purchase of lion tracking collars, the installation of predator-proof bomas, and the salary of a Lion Ambassador. We also heavily invest in the future of conservation by sponsoring many of the herder training sessions.
Watch a video of a lion collaring event.
Guests at our camps can contribute directly to this research by sharing clear photographs of predators, which help the team build ID catalogues. For a deeper immersion, we can arrange a private presentation by an MPCP researcher followed by dinner at camp. This experience must be booked in advance and requires a minimum donation of USD 300 (for 1-3 guests) or USD 500 (for 4 or more guests), directly supporting their field operations.
