By Mark Kawalya
The integration of drone technology is revolutionizing wildlife conservation efforts in Uganda, particularly in monitoring and protecting African lions. Led by Dr. Alexander Braczkowski, an experienced big cat biologist and wildlife filmmaker, conservation teams are using DJI’s Zenmuse H30T drones to tackle the limitations of traditional lion tracking methods and capture vital data.
Uganda, known for its expansive national parks, such as Queen Elizabeth National Park, faces significant challenges in tracking lion populations. This is the case in areas with thick, thorny vegetation, such as the Acacia Sickle Bush Thickets. This dense terrain has made ground-based tracking methods difficult as it hinders researchers’ ability to gather accurate data on lion behavior and health.
Dr. Braczkowski explains, “Our teams are out every day, using photographic techniques to identify individual lions. However certain terrains are nearly impassable, making it difficult to consistently monitor the lions.” This is where aerial technology steps in to provide a solution.
Aerial Drones: A Game-Changer for Wildlife Monitoring
Drones offer a clear advantage over traditional tracking methods. They enable researchers to observe lion movements and behaviors from the sky. Recently, Dr. Braczkowski’s team captured rare footage of lions swimming across the crocodile-infested Kazinga Channel. This would have been nearly impossible to document without drones. The Zenmuse H30T, with its advanced thermal and night vision capabilities, allows for more precise and detailed tracking of lions, even in low-light conditions. “The Zenmuse H30T gives us a much clearer view than previous models, particularly at night, which has been critical in monitoring not only lions but other wildlife as well,” says Dr. Braczkowski.
Beyond photography, drones play a critical role in detecting new lions and monitoring key behaviors such as mating and hunting, often concealed by dense vegetation. Additionally, drones help combat illegal activities like poaching and unauthorized fishing within protected areas.
“The potential for drone technology in conservation is enormous,” says Dr. Braczkowski.
“It’s not just about capturing footage, but also about ensuring the safety of wildlife by detecting threats like poaching.”
Over the years, Dr. Braczkowski’s team has relied on various DJI models, from early Mavic versions to the advanced Matrice series. However, the introduction of the Zenmuse H30T has pushed their conservation efforts to new heights. The drones allow them to produce higher-quality wildlife documentaries and achieve previously impossible research insights.
