Lopirr Buddha seen here as a cub and now as a young male. Photo Roimen Lelya/Ingela Jansson
Lopirr Buddha seen here as a cub and now as a young male. Photo Roimen Lelya/Ingela Jansson

Lopirr Buddha seen here as a cub and now as a young male. Photo Roimen Lelya/Ingela Jansson

After some years of following Nosikitok and her pride in Ndutu, her collar dropped off as per schedule in December, and we needed to find a new lion to follow. Roimen was aware of some young males roaming widely and to collar one of these males would give us an opportunity to warn people of their presence on a daily basis, enabling them to keep their livestock out of harm’s way and for us to keep an eye out for the lions and protect them on their travels through NCA.

Thanks to the KopeLion team and Dr. Wambura, one of the three brothers, who are together, was collared on the 4th of January between Ndutu and the Highlands, and due to his size was given the names Lopirr, which means the large one in Maa, and Buddha at the request of the Mansharamani family who has so generously supported KopeLion work.

Lopirr Buddha is originally from the Carter Lakes pride and is either the son of Noongoile or her Aunt. The gang has been currently pretty settled in the Kiloki valley feeding on the richness of the migration passing through.

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Kope Lion

Kope Lion

KopeLion Inc. (short for Korongoro People’s Lion Initiative) is a non-profit NGO registered in USA and in Tanzania. Our mission is to foster human-lion coexistence through participatory research and sustainable community-based conservation.

2 weeks ago

Kope Lion
At Kopelion, we’re bringing old GPS units back to life and putting them to work in the field once again!These repurposed devices are essential tools that help us track lion movements, monitor territories, and gather critical conservation data — all while reducing waste and maximising resources.Every piece of technology has a story, and with a little innovation, it can help write a new chapter in lion conservation. ... See MoreSee Less
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3 weeks ago

Kope Lion
Meet Joshua Mepalari – KopeLion’s Expert Mechanic! 🛻🦁Joshua Mepalari, from Endulen village in Ngorongoro, is a talented vehicle mechanic and experienced driver whose passion and dedication keep our fieldwork running smoothly. Since joining KopeLion in August 2024, Joshua has become a crucial part of the team—maintaining and repairing our vehicles before, during, and after lion monitoring missions across challenging terrain.But Joshua’s impact goes beyond just tools and tyres.“I enjoy being part of work that promotes harmony between humans, livestock, and lions—living together in peace,” he shares. “This work also brings me closer to my community, as they often ask me where lions are so they can keep their families and herds safe. I’ve also gained new skills—improving my knowledge of vehicles like the Land Rover and even learning to use computers.”We’re proud to have Joshua on the team—his skills, curiosity, and connection to the community make him an invaluable part of KopeLion.📷: @bobbyjosafaris ... See MoreSee Less
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