Lion Hunting In Namibia
Most of the free roaming lions left in Namibia are protected within the National Park boundaries but when they cross over into neighbouring tribal conservancies like the King Nehale conservancy which is situated directly on the northern border of the famous Etosha National Park they often become a problem when they start to prey on cattle.
Lions are magnificent yet frightening creatures, with little fear of man. During daylight Lions are more careful of man. Lionesses, especially with cubs should be treated with utmost care and at best be avoided at all costs, as they are particularly aggressive. Their superb night vision is one of the reasons why they are most active at night. With such superb vision they hunt only on sight. During the rainy season when the grass is long and lush and the bush thick and green, their vision can be severely restricted. At such times hunting is difficult and they turn to cattle killing.
Lion Hunting Photos
How to hunt Lion
Lion are normally hunted with baits. The procedure is to first hunt bait, usually springbok, buffalo, hippo, zebra or any other large trophy taken. Then carefully hang or fasten the carcass to a limb or tree in an open exposed area. The bait is then checked every day until there has been a hit or strike. A large spoor or long hairs on the bait signal the building of a blind. Shooting will most likely take place from a well constructed blind, situated in an easily accessible position downwind and 60 – 100 m from the bait.
Often big males or specific problem Lions have to be tracked. Lions are lazy and prefer to walk along game trails and Elephant paths as the going is easier. After a big meal they head for water, after which they find a cool shady spot to sleep. Tracking Lion is one of the biggest adrenalin rush activities you would ever partake in, out of your own free will!!! This can only be attempted with a team that has thorough knowledge of Lion behaviour.
As with Leopard, a Lion can not absorb a good dose of Hydrostatic shock. Therefore a fairly fragile bullet that will expand easy and transfer its kinetic energy while creating a large wound channel is ideal. The best shot to take is on a standing full broadside position. Aim well behind the shoulder blades as far back as the elbow on the body’s horizontal line.
No African hunter can ever forget the gaze of intent yellow eyes calculating from within dense thorn scrub, the earth shattering roar.