Annual Report 2011

Thank you to everyone who has supported us in 2011.

Life in a Pioneering Lion Pride

Ngamo

The Ngamo pride were released on 1st September 2010, and during their first 4 months had proven themselves capable hunters. As 2011 began the research team awaited the arrival of the first cubs to be born of a released pride in the program’s history, the next step in our progress towards the release of lions into the wild. We did not have to wait long; on 20th January Athena gave birth to three cubs with Kenge adding another two to the pride one month later. At each stage of the release program we have suffered set-backs. We have sought to understand the reasons for such and to seek ways to overcome them. And we have. So it should have been no surprise to us that this next crucial element of the program would also bring its highs and lows. Of the original five cubs born only one survived, Alpha. Throughout 2011 we have watched in awe as this tiny cub has grown under the constant care of her mother, recorded her integration into the pride, observed her territorial behavior develop and crossed our fingers as she began to use her predatory instincts. Alpha is a strong, playful, exuberant and healthy cub that is developing every day under the eyes of our research team (see images from her life on the following page). Most importantly, it is this cub that will likely lead the first pride of lions to be released into the wild as final part of the African Lion Rehabilitation & Release into the Wild Program when she and the other cubs that have been born later in the year to the pride are old enough; around 2 – 3 years. Ashanti gave birth in June but lost her litter. At the end of September both Phyre and Kenge gave birth. The research team observed Athena acting in a predatory manner towards these cubs and it is suspected that she may have been a cause of low cub survival within the pride to date. When we started the release stages we understood that some very difficult decisions would need to made, including as regards individual lions. We took the incredibly tough decision to remove Athena permanently from the Ngamo release pride in response to this lion’s negative impact on achieving one element of the Program’s goals; that of achieving a socially stable pride that maximizes cub reproduction. Whilst this action was taken too late to save Phyre’s litter, Kenge’s cubs (see image on previous page) are flourishing. Ashanti has now also given birth to two cubs in November and they seem to be doing well, although they are still too young to venture from their den site in a dense thicket. We will continue to observe and record the life of this pioneering pride as we move towards the release of their cubs into the wild. Many of you are already joining the pride on this journey through Ngamo’s own blog site that brings the pride’s daily activities to you in great detail with regular updates, stories and images. ALERT would like to thank our research team: Jacqui Kirk, Rae Kokes, Bob Mandinyenya, Kirsty Lynas, Niki Rust and Yvonne Gordon for going out in all weathers in an uncomfortable caged vehicle to collect data and bring us the amazing story of this pioneering lion pride. Thanks must also go to the staff of Antelope Park that provides logistical support to the research effort, to PDQ Enterprises for donating a new, reliable research vehicle and to David Castle, amongst many others that have financially assisted the program. In 2012 we are seeking funds to; increase the size of the release area and maintain prey populations to sustain the pride. You can assist us in this by making a donation or sponsoring one or more members of the now twelve-strong pride.

January saw the release on DVD of the incredibly successful series one of Lion Country that charts the progress of the lion release program. Filmed at the end of 2009 and airing in the UK in 2010, this year saw the broadcast of the series worldwide from France and the USA to Australia, amongst others. In the UK the six one hour episodes that made up series two of the program aired. This series is now available to download in its twelve part format from iTunes (as is series one). We hope the series will also get a worldwide release in 2012.

Someone not known to us has made most of the episodes of both series available to view online. To enjoy the series you can visit our Lion Country page on the ALERT web site.

Also in 2011 a companion book to the TV series was released. You can order a copy of this stunning coffee-table format book here.

We are keen to continue the story of the release program in film and are working with a production team to fund a film entitled Bred to be Wild. The film will focus on Alpha, the oldest cub in the Ngamo pride, as a means to highlight the issues facing lions in the wild, and what measures are necessary to ensure the survival of Africa’s most iconic species.

Also in January: In Livingstone 14 month old Bemba made her first kill taking a Sharpe’s Grysbok. Over the border in Victoria Falls Mvuthu killed a baboon whilst sister Monde snacked on a vulture she had caught. In the Ngamo release site the pride were averaging 7.27kg of meat per lion / per day and Phyre was establishing herself as alpha female of the pride. Emma Townson, a veterinary nurse from Portugal, was working hard as an animal management intern at our Livingstone project site.

2011 saw the launch of the ALERT Internship Program. This Program provides graduates and skilled individuals with unrivalled opportunities to experience the complexities and challenges involved in working for a non-governmental organization (NGO) in Africa. The Program has been designed to incorporate individuals from all walks of life; whether you are a graduate looking to gain behind-the-scenes experience in conservation field work; a teacher seeking an opportunity to use your skills to help under-privileged children or a vet nurse who wants a chance to work with some of Africa’s iconic wildlife. Eleven people joined us in 2011 from the UK, Ireland, Australia, the USA and Canada for a total of 842 days between them to give of their time to assist our efforts. They operated in the fields of project management, hospitality, healthcare, fundraising, marketing, research and animal management. Not only have these individuals provided valuable skills to enhance our projects’ effectiveness but their fees have funded the projects they worked on as well as enabling us to offer fully funded placements to students from African universities. Placements are filling up quickly for 2012 so act quickly if you are interested in taking part. You can download the brochure here.

ALERT Chief Operating Officer David Youldon visited Bishop’s Stortford High School to give a presentation to the students. A photo opportunity with the School’s Eco-Society (pictured above) was also arranged.

Also in February: Tanaka (aka Megggie) and brother Tsavo each caught a wildebeest on night encounters at Antelope Park. Former Antelope Park and Livingstone lion volunteer Peter Flawn sponsored the drilling of a borehole at Mkoba 4 Primary School.

Volunteer Katy Fairweather returned to the UK and immediately started raising funds for ALERT Communities Trust programs in Gweru. A staggering sum of over $10,600 was raised which over the following months went to support a number of programs, including: - The Hopeful Life Care Centre received a new stove and other kitchen

equipment, mattresses, wheel chairs and learning aids. - The Midland’s Children’s home was the recipient of a new 5000 lt.

water tank and a TV. - Kids at the Children’s Hope Centre were able to enjoy new beds and

other furniture. - At Mboka 4 Polyclinic the tiling was replaced to improve hygiene. - Whilst at the Mtapa Polyclinic the plumbing was replaced. - Mkoba 4 and Somabhula Primary Schools both received computers. “Mkoba 4 primary school is highly appreciative for the donation of computers…its going to be a step ahead to pupils and teachers in the field of information and technology” Mr. Mantiziba, Headmaster. “Thank you for giving us an amazing present [of a computer]…and for painting our school…you are beautiful as a rainbow” Michelle, student at Somabhula Primary School The ALERT Communities Trust was founded as a division of ALERT to focus on empowerment and benefit sharing, human / wildlife conflict issues, education and health with communities living alongside Africa’s wildlife. Only when the African people are able to accrue the benefits of sound wildlife management will the motivation for such be generated to produce the long term solutions that are so greatly needed. ACT programs now operate over 25 programs that all need your support to extend the benefits that we can provide to communities to encourage their support of conservation efforts. You can make a donation to these programs, or why not contact us about you can sponsor a child’s school fees, provide equipment for healthcare facilities and other options. Just drop us an email at info@lionalert.org

NGAMO Lessons in the art of cat-napping: key steps to a good 21 hours of sleep a day

2

1

Don’t worry if you’re out and about, sleep can take place anywhere… under a bush, on a rock, even in the middle of the road!

At the first signs of tiredness…give in immediately. 3 Sleep is fine on

your own, or you can make a real event of it and get a group of friends together for a nap

A word of caution, once you have found a good place to take your nap, others will try and steal it – don’t let them.

4

5 If you can’t find time to sleep, try multi-tasking. A half-eaten zebra carcass also makes a perfect head rest.

If someone wakes you, do not attempt to get up! Just roll over, close your eyes and you’ll soon fall asleep again

6

7 If you intend to get your 21 hours all in one go, make sure others know you do not wish to be disturbed.

8 And finally, learn all you can from professionals.

In Livingstone animal management intern Emma Townson was given an opportunity to assist our consultant vets operate on Nyika, an adult lioness who had a piece of bone that had ruptured her intestine causing life threatening injuries. The operation took a little over two hours with Dr. Nolleen Parsons leading the procedure, repairing several tears to the gut and of course removing the source of the problem. Nyika has made a full recovery under the care of the Lion Encounter Zambia team. After the operation was completed, Emma said: “It’s the kind of operation I’ve assisted on many times during my career as a veterinary nurse, but of course on domestic animals, like dogs and cats. While the principles are still the same, there were a couple of occasions during the operation when I looked up and almost did a double take that this was an adult African lion on the operating table in front of me.” Also in March: Tswana made a successful hunt on a wildebeest on a day encounter in Livingstone.

Livingstone volunteer, Dr. Jackie Abell, had been in training for the Brighton Marathon since her placement in April 2010; having completed the 26.2 mile course on the 15th of April this year, just one week later she was on a plane to visit the lions that had set her off and running in the first place: “Well, I did it! I’m not entirely sure how, but on Sunday 10th April on a hot day in Brighton I completed the marathon in 4 hours 20 minutes and 35 seconds! I won’t pretend it wasn’t painful, because it was! But, it was also hugely enjoyable. The crowd were fantastic, with people rigging up hoses and showers from their kitchen sinks to spray the runners with cold water as we went past, as well as keeping our spirits up on the 26.2 mile slog. To the small child whose tin of Quality Street I raided at mile 12; apologies! I don’t usually run off with children’s sweeties! The only point at which I seriously wanted to stop and go to the pub was mile 16. You’ve already gone a long way and there’s still 10+ miles to go! However, I’d taken photos of some of the lions with me. A quick look at them, and I remembered why I was doing what I was doing. The pub could wait - I had a marathon to finish. I went back to the project in Livingstone a week after the run and saw for myself yet again how urgently money is needed to conserve this charismatic species we’ve all fallen in love with, to fund release sites in Zimbabwe and Zambia for the lions in stages 2 & 3, and to help the communities that ALERT work with and support. In a nutshell, the project and those lions need our help. Please let’s get these lions to stage 4. Finally, a huge thank you to everyone at ALERT and all of you who have sponsored me, supported me, suggested songs I could train to (although thrash metal took some getting used to!) and suggested lion names to go on the shirt. As Bisa’s name was at the top of my running shirt, the crowd seemed to assume this was my name and cheered her on for 26.2 miles. I informed Bisa on my recent placement that she’s now famous in Brighton. Apparently she’s available for autographs! And will I keep running? Oh yes! I’ve got 4 hours 20 mins and 35 seconds to beat…” Jackie raised over £1500 for ALERT and has now returned to Livingstone on our internship program.

Also in April: This year’s elephant season in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park began in earnest. The research team studying the ecology of elephants in the region with a view to tackling the huge conflict the species has with humans in this area headed out to continue efforts that started in 2010.

A morning encounter for the 4KLs in Livingstone set out with high hopes for some hunting practice for the pride mates ahead of their release later in the year. Ever the exhibitionists, the KLs decided to put on a bit of a show with Leya literally somersaulting over one wildebeest and somehow managing to grab on as she flew over. While Kela and Kwandi raced in to help Leya bring the wildebeest down, sister Loma took off after the rest of the herd and seemingly kept on going for some time not returning to feed from the carcass for 20 minutes. Unsuccessful in her efforts, she joined the rest of group for a well-deserved meal. Also in May: Donations were made to assist in feeding the animals of Starvation Island in Lake Kariba following high rainfalls that reduced the size of the island, and therefore the natural food source. Staff at Primark in Wigan held a lion day at the store raising awareness ad funds for ALERT’s programs. 12 month old Chundu made his first kill in Victoria Falls grabbing himself a quail. Kwandi in Livingstone was bitten by a puff adder and made a full recovery. Vicky Lalumiere and David Hollingworth joined the Livingstone team for their internship programs.

Walking on hot coals might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but Cassandra Beattie explains why it’s just the start of her fundraising for ACT’s partnership projects with The Happy Africa Foundation (THAF) and Antelope Park. “Before I set off for Antelope Park last December I wanted to raise some money for the orphanage. Through a raffle I raised $2,000. After returning from AP I had to return to work the next day and immediately put in a request to take another three months off work to return. Unfortunately I had to settle for two months, but I’ll be heading back to the Park this December. This time, I’m serious and with 10 months between my placements I’m aiming for $30,000. So far I’ve raised almost $28,000!! I knew I’d have to come up with some interesting ideas so after much consideration I decided that my main event would be a Fire Walk - a sponsored walk over hot coals. I’ve also organised a race night at a greyhound track and several raffles. With the success of the first Fire Walk, which raised $19,500, I’m now organising a second one. I even resorted to crazy ways of advertising the events by getting designs and information shaved into my hair! It’s been a lot of effort to organise but I know when I see the projects this money has helped to complete and the lives it has impacted, I know it will have been worth it.

Also in June: Elephant monitoring has been reveling in a huge influx of familiar faces over the last month. While many of the elephants encountered on monitoring sessions are new to our database, increasing numbers are returnees first identified last year. An important part of the program is the progress of juveniles and reproductive rates to assess the long term health of the population. Lion Encounter Zambia began hosting school trips for educational visits to our project site in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park. Also, the team commenced work at Muuke Pre-school, not far from the program’s base. Muuke only has two teachers caring for 70 pre-school age children, mostly between 4 and 6 years old.

St Mary’s Church of England Primary School’s Year 1 class stepped out of Prestwich and explored Africa’s wildlife! Teacher, Helen May, explains: “My year 1 class have been learning about Africa; the places, people and of course the wildlife. Every area in our classroom was linked to Africa. We modelled animals, designed animal prints, constructed “safe and happy” zoos, experienced life in the savannah through some entertaining role play, read about life in Africa and even created our own National Parks!

In literacy classes the pupils wrote factual reports about big cats, and created myths about how the animals got their wonderful patterns and amazing body shapes. As part of our Africa topic, the class decided they would like to raise money for ALERT. Having previously completed a topic on dinosaurs the class were clear on what the term “extinction” meant. With this in mind, they were determined to help ALERT save the African lion. The children raised over £100 by doing jobs at home. Each child then emailed David Youldon [ALERT Chief Operating Officer] to tell him all about their achievements and were delighted to receive replies which they have printed off and taken home!”

With the assistance of teachers from around the world ALERT has now produced a series of educational packs for use in schools. These packs give background information and lesson plans with educational activities. For more information on getting a pack for your school contact rae@lionalert.org *All photos have been approved for publication by the children’s parents.

Jamie Jolly volunteered at the Livingstone project back in 2009. He returned on the Animal Management Internship. “My placement began at the end of June and I’ve been working with Lion’s Manager Cara Watts. The main responsibilities I’ve been given include keeping the health records for all lions up to date as well as behavioural records. I complete weekly body condition scores as well. A big part of the role has been to ensure that the weights during meat preparation for the feeds are correct and accurately recorded”. Also onsite at Lion Encounter Zambia was Facilitated Research student, Chris Goodman. Joining us for five weeks, Chris was collecting data for his dissertation in Geography at the UK’s renowned Oxford University. Chris was investigating the domestic-wild binary of the practices and stages of the rehabilitation and release program. If you are undertaking a dissertation for your course, whether it be in on wildlife, the environment or community related, why not consider collecting your data in Africa, facilitated by ALERT. For more details on the Facilitated research program in 2012 click here

Michaela Channings conquered her fears on 3rd August by undertaking a tandem skydive in support of the lions, raising over £1300 in the process. “The Sky dive was the most scary experience of my life so far…..but worth all the terror; to know where the funds would be going….and I have to confess that I actually enjoyed the freefall and descent (which I hadn’t anticipated). I have attached a photo during freefall where we were roaring for the lions! It was a personal challenge for me, but my motivation to do such a crazy thing was from the lions and the team at ALERT. I am looking forward to the release pictures for the Dambwa pride!!”

Also in July: ALERT launched a new range of merchandise which was well received. Click here for the UK based store or the US based store, although each will distribute worldwide.

Life in a Pioneering Lion Pride

Dambwa

The Dambwa pride was released on 26th August 2011, our second lion release in less than a year. Fully-funded by our partner, Lion Encounter Zambia, the six females of the pride have spent the remainder of the year sustaining themselves on a variety of prey including waterbuck, eland, puku, wildebeest, impala and zebra.

On December 11th the girls were deemed to have formed a stable pride social group and so a male, Zulu, was introduced to the release site, creating much excitement amongst the females, to complete the pride. Supporters have been able to follow the story of the pride through their own blog, but can also sponsor them to assist in their future progress through the program. We urge you to continue to support our efforts to create further suitable release areas for lions by making a donation.

Speech given by ALERT COO David Youldon at the release

“This release exemplifies our continuing commitment to

combatting one of the most underexposed and ill-expressed problems in environmental conservation; that of the rapid decline of this continent’s most iconic symbol; the African lion. The lion is synonymous with Africa; the king of beasts, recognised as one of its most potent emblems, whose history is so richly intertwined with the history of those who have lived before us. It represents centuries of tradition, millennia of culture, and aeons of life on earth.

This regal and powerful animal reflects the values held most

dearly by this community, this nation and this continent; strength, pride & courage; yet its demise continues, unabated.

There is no more perfect metaphor to emphasise what the

environment is enduring around this incredible continent, than the plight of the African lion as it struggles to survive against increasingly unfavourable odds. The time to act is now. We all must come together and with one voice vow to protect this precious gift to mankind, and we shall learn to understand its intricacies and frailties so that we may co-exist alongside it.

These beautiful animals are integral to the well-being of

Africa’s unique and special ecosystems, but we must embrace and act on that knowledge, as such action will underpin a more sustainable way of life for us all.

Africa’s lands, so rich and diverse, are not owned by us, but

rather they are leant to us. Whilst each of us may enjoy this natural heritage only for a short time, it is our solemn responsibility to those who come after us to cherish it; and ensure that it remains able to nourish us and them. Our efforts today may represent a small step, but it is a step in the right direction, a demonstration of how communities and wildlife can live and thrive together.”

Dr. Jacob Mwitwa appointed to ALERT Zambia Technical Board ALERT increased the membership of our technical board in August by inviting Dr. Jacob Mwitwa to join us on a consultancy basis. Dr Mwitwa is the Dean of the School of Natural Resources at Copperbelt University (CBU) in the north of Zambia and we therefore bring a huge amount of knowledge and experience to the Board. ALERT and CBU formed a partnership over a year ago to give internship opportunities to their students through the ALERT Communities Trust empowerment scheme. That partnership will be further extended over the coming year as we seek to create a joint research station that will greatly benefit both organizations and our partners.

Also in August: Chisa catches a baboon in Victoria Falls. Kutanga at Antelope Park make a treble with an impala, a wildebeest and a zebra. Not to be outdone, Tanaka (aka Meggie) does the same with two impala and a wildebeest. Laili and Lewa make their first kills, a monitor lizard and a kudu foal.

Latest comments from our interns “This has become my home. I cherish it and will help to make it grow even when I am not here. It is a program that must happen, needs to happen, and it is working. Being here for so long I’ve seen all the benefits, the miracles it brings. This project works.” Laura Horowitz, Medical Intern “This project is truly a gift, and there is nothing else like it in the world.” Emily Oppenheim, Animal Management “I am passionate about this project – for me the only truly holistic and realistic conservation project currently operating in Africa.” David Hollingworth, Project Management “This trip was unlike anything I could have imagined. Some of the best things about having an extended stay has been getting to know the staff and seeing progress first hand. The dedication of the staff is astonishing and is something that definitely needs to be acknowledged.” Laura Pena, Animal Management

Also in September: The Victoria Falls team take part in a mass clean up event in and around Victoria Falls for World Tourism Day (above left). They also received a visit from global superstar David Hasslehof, pictured here with Chisa. In Livingstone Zambezi made her first kill by taking a vervet monkey. Kutanga continues her dominance of night encounters by catching an impala, a duiker and a kudu. Moyo grabs himself a zebra on his first day encounter. Brittanie Broughton arrives to intern in Livingstone: “My reasons for becoming an intern are that I wanted to gain hands-on experience with lions. I’m greatly interested in practical conservation and feel that there is little opportunity for people wanting to gain such experiences with wildlife. I feel that the internship is perfect for me to gain the skills I need for a future career in wildlife conservation… I am enjoying getting to know and understand the behaviours and individual characters of the lions. I feel privileged to be a part of a conservation breeding programme, working towards a brighter future for the African lion.”

ALERT in Kenya & Malawi

In 2011 ALERT was pleased to announce its support of programs in the Naboisho Conservancy in Kenya and Kusungu National Park in Malawi.

Mara Naboisho Project: Through our operational partner, African Impact, we are supporting efforts to discover more about the lions of the Maasai Mara ecosystem. This project concentrates on the Naboisho Conservancy, 50,000 acres on the northern border of the Maasai Mara Reserve. Naboisho, which in Maasai means 'coming together' is a community driven initiative to create a wildlife conservation and tourism area that supports the livelihoods of the over 500 Maasai landowners and the surrounding communities. Data collected on the lions is being provided to the researchers of the Living with Lions Mara Predator Project that are co-ordinating the region wide effort. Research from Naboisho is combined with data from the Mara North and Olare Orok conservancies and is intended to provide identification of individual lions, to determine home ranges, monitor reproduction and identify long term population trends; essential baseline data for all conservation efforts. This program has a broader reach. In order to empower the conservation efforts further and measure the progress of the conservancy data is collected on other large predators within the area as well as other wildlife populations that sustain one of the highest densities of lions found anywhere in Africa. Data collected on cheetah populations is provided to the Kenya Wildlife Trust whilst data on elephants is provided to Elephant Voices. In addition, ALERT supports the Mara Naboisho Lion Project that is seeking to understand the spatial and temporal ecology of lion in and around the Naboisho Conservancy. It is believed that a greater knowledge of lion movement in time and space will assist the Maasai communities to reduce conflict with lions when grazing their cattle. Furthermore, this project will result in a better understanding of the positive effects on wildlife security of the Conservancy such that the principles engaged can be repeated in other unprotected human-wildlife conflicted areas.

Kasungu National Park is approximately 2,316km2 in size; situated on Malawi's western border with Zambia. Kasungu became a National Park in 1970 and was seen as the best game park in Malawi. It once supported the largest elephant population in Malawi of over 2,000 but it is now estimated as 150 head. The park has seen a rapid deterioration in its animal numbers of all species. Other large animals still seen are; eland, buffalo, zebra, kudu, roan, sable, puku, hartebeest and even leopard, lion and the elusive African wild dog. The deterioration has been part due to cross-border poaching as well as local poaching. Tree cutting ranks the highest among illegal activities recorded and animal poaching is rife. Fire is set by poachers during the dry season to better spot and hunt animals. Chinaka (edible orchid) and fire wood collection, water poisoning and illegal fishing are recorded. Encroachment is widespread along the western Zambian and eastern Malawian borders. The western Zambian border is rarely patrolled due to lack of resources. However the majority of illegal activities are registered along the eastern side of the park where tree cutting and snaring are at their highest despite a designated 5km buffer zone on its eastern border and 52 km of electric fence. Communities are allowed to collect certain natural resources such as matondo (caterpillars of the speckled emperor moth), grass, mushrooms and honey, among others. Promoted by village head men and politicians, cultivation and tree cutting mainly occur inside the buffer zone. Moreover, the tobacco industry encourages people to cut down trees and clear land to be used for eucalyptus plantations to obtain firewood for the tobacco drying process. Although encroachment has existed for more than 15 years in the park the problem has not yet been resolved, on the contrary it is getting worse. ALERT supports Carnivore Conservation Malawi that is seeking to assess wildlife populations with particular reference to the maintenance of large predators such as lion, hyena, leopard and wild dog, all of which are still present, in low numbers, in Kasungu NP. To date surveys have been conducted through transects and by remote cameras to identify individuals and overall population size.

The packs are available in two formats; PDF versions can be accessed and downloaded from our website by clicking here for Key Stages 1 and 2, or for Stages 3 and 4 click here. Alternatively, if you would like to order a printed and bound copy, we ask for a donation of £20.00 to cover printing and postage and can be ordered here. Please include your name, along with the school’s name and address.

Key stage one to four teacher resource packs

ALERT has collaborated with educational facilities worldwide to produce a series of teaching packs to aid classrooms across different age groups and curricula. We believe the iconic African lion captures the hearts and curiosity of all ages; bringing Africa and its lions into the classroom can help create focus amongst students within a variety of subjects. We attempt to use to use African examples and case studies during lesson plans and activities to add variety to the curriculum and make learning more fun – and exotic! Currently available are packs or Key Stages 1 and 2 (ages 5 to 11 years) and Key Stages 3 and 4 (ages 12 to 16 years).

Also in October: Thanks to ALERT Ambassador Asli Han Gedik we featured in the Turkish edition of Hello! magazine. Former volunteers Morwenna Rogers and Joyce La Vertue announced their intention to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in aid of ALERT. Please support their efforts at: Joyce La Vertue Mo Rogers

Also in November: Chobe & Chisa bring down a buffalo in Victoria Falls. Kutanga and Kenya each grab a zebra at Antelope Park whilst the MK group caught an impala.

Kenge introduced her cubs to the Ngamo pride. Watch the film of the event here.

As we enter 2012 our projects now include: African Lion Rehabilitation & Release Program Mara Naboisho Project Biodiversity Assessment Zambezi National Park Reforestation Program Kasungu National Park Predator Program Sable Habitat Selection Study in Zambezi NP Invasive alien plant removal Victoria Falls NP Zambezi National Park Predator Program Mara Naboisho Lion Project Biological Monitoring Victoria Falls National Park Entomological Survey in Zambezi National Park Anti-Poaching programs Zimbabwe Predator Task Force Waterhole Restoration in Zambezi National Park Vulture Population Monitoring in Mosi-oa-Tunya NP Elephant Monitoring in Mosi-oa-Tunya NP Chromosome variability in lions Hopeful Life Care Centre Midland’s Children’s Home Children’s Hope Centre Mkoba 4 Polyclinic Mtapa Polyclinic Mkoba 4 Primary School Somabhula Primary School Mickey Mouse Pre-School Maunga Basic School Maunga Community Pre-school Kids Club Maunga Community Healthcare Program Conservation Education Muukee Community Pre-school Monde Primary School Monde AIDS Garden Victoria Falls Orphanage With your support we will are seeking to develop these programs as well as add more to extend our holistic approach to conservation.

Zambezi Lion FC: a conservation education initiative providing lessons to their opposing teams at each match

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

REPORT AND UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

Company No: 6311286

Charity Commission No: 1120572

Page

Company Information 1

Report of the Directors 2 - 4

Report of the Independent Examiner 5

Statement of Financial Activities 6

Balance Sheet 7

Notes to the Financial Statements 8 - 11

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

CONTENTS

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

COMPANY INFORMATION

Directors Mr Andrew Conolly (Chairman)

Mr Charles Arthur Cain

Mr Clive Ronald Needham

Mr David Scott

Company Number 6311286

Charity Number 1120572

Registered Office 39 St. James's Place

London

SW1A 1NS

United Kingdom

Company Secretary Ms Lisa Walker

Chief Operating Officer Mr David Youldon

Independent Examiner M A Wilkes FCA

Wilkins Kennedy

Stourside Place

Station Road

Ashford

Kent

Bankers Lloyds TSB

32 Oxford Street

London

- 1 -

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

REPORT OF THE DIRECTORS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

Constitution

Objects of the charity

The objects of the Charity are for the public benefit:

(1)

(2)

(3)

Directors

The directors who served during the year were:

Mr Andrew Conolly (Chairman)

Mr Charles Arthur Cain

Mr Clive Ronald Needham

Mr David Scott

Review of activities

The number of directors shall not be less than three but is subject to no maximum. One-third of the directors must retire

from office at each Annual General Meeting but is eligible for re-appointment. Directors may be appointed by ordinary

resolution.

Each member of the Association has guaranteed to subscribe £1.00 in the event of the company being wound-up.

The company is also registered with the Charity Commission, number 1120572.

- 2 -

The Ngamo pride were released on 1 September 2010, as 2011 began the research team awaited the arrival of the first

cubs to be born of a released pride in the program's history. On 20 January, Athena gave birth to three cubs with Kenge

adding another two to the pride one month later. At each stage of the release program we have suffered setbacks and it

should have been no surpirse to us that this next crucial element of the program would bring its highs and lows. Of the

original five cubs to be born, only one survived. In total fifteen cubs were born in 2011 but unfortunately ten did not

survive.

The Dambwa pride was released on 26 August 2011, our second lion release in less than a year. Fully funded by our

partner, Lion Encounter Zambia, the six females of the pride have spent the remainder of the year sustaining

themselves on a variety of prey including waterbuck, eland, puku, wildebeest, impala and zebra. On 11 December, the

girls were deemed to have formed a stable pride social group and so a male, Zulu, was introduced to the release site,

creating much excitement amongst the females, to complete the pride.

African Lion Environmental Research Trust Limited’s (ALERT) aims, objectives and vision remain:

• To promote for the benefit of the public, the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural

environment of the African Lion.

• To advance the education of the public in the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and natural

environment of the African Lion.

• To further and benefit the community in Africa by ensuring that they receive tangible benefit from supporting

conservation programmes in relation to the African Lion.

The Directors present their report, together with the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2011.

The company was incorporated as a limited company on 12 July 2007 and is governed by its Memorandum and Articles

of Association. The company number is 6311286.

To promote for the benefit of the public, the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and

natural environment of the African Lion.

To advance the education of the public in the conservation, protection and improvement of the physical and

natural environment of the African Lion.

To further and benefit the community in Africa by ensuring that they receive tangible benefit from supporting

conservation programmes in relation to the African Lion.

The power to appoint and discharge director is noted in the Memorandum and Articles of Association which are its

governing documents.

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

REPORT OF THE DIRECTORS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

Review of activities - continued

Risk Management

Investment Powers

Financial Review

Reserves Policy

It is the aim of the charity to build up unrestricted funds, which are the free reserves of the charity, at a level

which equates to six months budgeted total future operating expenditure. Based on expenditure over the last two

years this would equate to £66,000. At 31 December 2011, free reserves amounted to £34,573 (2010: £33,051)

The balance of unrestricted funds at the period end had not yet reached this level. We continue to actively work

to build the unrestricted cash reserves of ALERT.

- 3 -

2011 saw the launch of the ALERT Internship program. This program provides graduates and skilled individuals

with unrivalled opportunities to experience the complexities and challenges involved in working for a non-

governmental organisation in Africa. The program has been designed to incorporate individuals from all walks of

life; whether you are a graduate looking to gain behind-the-scenes experience in conservation field work; a

teacher seeking an opportunity to use your skills to help under-privileged children or a vet nurse who wants a

chance to work with some of Africa's iconic wildlife. Eleven people joined us in 2011 from the UK, Ireland,

Australia, USA and Canada for a total of 842 days between them to give of their time to assist our efforts.

The directors confirm that they have referred to the guidance contained in the Charity Commission’s general

guidance on public benefit when reviewing the Trust’s aims and objectives and in planning future activities.

January saw the release on DVD of the incredibly successful series one of Lion Country that charts the progress

of the lion release program. Filmed at the end of 2009 and airing in the UK in 2010, this year saw the broadcast

of the series worldwide. In the UK, the six one hour episodes that made up series two of the program aired. We

hope the series will get a worldwide release in 2012. We are keen to continue the story of the release program in

film and are working with a production team to fund a film entitled 'Bred to be Wild'.

In 2011, ALERT was pleased to announce its support of programs in the Naboisho Conservancy in Kenya and

Kusungu National Park in Malawi.

The directors have examined the major risks to which the charity is exposed and confirm that systems have

been established to mitigate those risks.

Under the Memorandum and Articles of Association, the charity has the power to make any investment, which

the directors see fit.

Incoming resources for the year amounted to £155,553 (2010: £93,541) an increase of approximately £62,000.

There was no filming income for 2011 (2010: £38,363) but this is offset by an increase in internship income of

£38,575 and restricted income of £62,893 in 2011. Resources expended amounted to £154,031 (2010:

£112,483) an increase of approximately £41,000.

As a result of the above movements, a surplus of £1,522 (2010: Deficit £18,942) was reported for the year.

Retained reserves total £34,573 (2010: £33,051).

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

REPORT OF THE DIRECTORS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

Directors' Responsibilities

In preparation of these financial statements, the directors have:

- selected suitable accounting policies and applied them consistently;

- made reasonable and prudent judgements and estimates;

-

-

Small company exemption

By order of the Board

Clive Needham

Director

2 May 2012

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records, which disclose with reasonable accuracy

at any time, the financial position of the charitable company and which enable it to ensure that financial

statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. The Directors are also responsible for safeguarding the

assets of the charitable company and hence for taking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of

fraud and other irregularities.

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies

Act 2006 relating to small companies.

- 4 -

The Directors are required by Company Law to prepare financial statements for each financial year which give a

true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company and of the surplus or deficit of the charitable

company for that period.

stated whether applicable accounting standards and Statements of Recommended Practice have

been followed subject to any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial

statements;

prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis unless it is inappropriate to presume

that the company will continue in operation.

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER'S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES

IN THE UNAUDITED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Respective responsibilities of director and reporting accountants

- examine the accounts under section 43 of the 1993 Act;

-

- to state whether particular matters have come to my attention.

Basis of independent examiner's report

Independent examiner's statement

In connection with my examination, no matter has come to my attention:

(1) which gives me reasonable cause to believe that in any material respect the requirements:

- to keep accounting records in accordance with section 386 of the Companies Act 2006; and

-

have not been met; or

(2)

M A Wilkes FCA

Wilkins Kennedy

Chartered Accountants

Stourside Place

Station Road

Ashford

Kent

Date: 8 May 2012

to prepare accounts which accord with the accounting records, comply with the accounting

requirements of section 396 of the Companies Act 2006 and with the methods and principles of the

Statement of Recommended Practice: Accounting and Reporting by Charities

to which, in my opinion, attention should be drawn in order to enable a proper understanding of the

accounts to be reached.

- 5 -

I report on the accounts for the year ended 31 December 2011 set out on pages 6 to 11.

My examination was carried out in accordance with the general Directions given by the Charity Commission. An

examination includes a review of the accounting records kept by the charity and a comparison of the accounts

presented with those records. It also includes consideration of any unusual items or disclosures in the accounts,

and seeking explanations from you as director concerning any such matters. The procedures undertaken do not

provide all the evidence that would be required in an audit and consequently no opinion is given as to whether the

accounts present a ‘true and fair view’ and the report is limited to those matters set out in the statement below.

to follow the procedures laid down in the general Directions given by the Charity Commission under

section 43(7)(b) of the 1993 Act; and

Having satisfied myself that the charity is not subject to audit under company law and is eligible for independent

examination, it is my responsibility to:

The directors (who are also the trustees of the charity for the purposes of charity law) are responsible for the

preparation of the accounts. The directors consider that an audit is not required for this year under section 43(2)

of the Charities Act 1993 (the 1993 Act) and that an independent examination is needed.

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL ACTIVITIES

(incorporating an income and expenditure account)

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

2010

Notes Restricted Unrestricted Total funds Total funds

£ £ £ £

Incoming resources

Charitable activities

Donations

General 62,893 7,140 70,034 6,040

From commercial partners - 23,100 23,100 34,387

Fundraising programs

Lion sponsorship program - 4,711 4,711 4,706

Merchandise sales - 880 880 522

Membership income - 901 901 -

Events - 3,640 3,640 -

Gift aid - 3,270 3,270 -

Other income - - - 1,012

Research and educational programs

Facilitated research program - 2,830 2,830 3,055

Internship program - 38,575 38,575 -

Volunteer program - 7,613 7,613 5,456

Filming income - - - 38,363

Total incoming resources 62,893 92,660 155,553 93,541

Resources expended

Costs of generating funds - 21,404 21,404 8,794

Operating research and educational programs - 6,399 6,399 24,475

Costs of charitable activities 62,893 50,539 113,432 68,791

Governance costs - 12,796 12,796 10,423

Total resources expended 3 62,893 91,138 154,031 112,483

Net movement in funds - 1,522 1,522 (18,942)

Funds at 1 January 2011 - 33,051 33,051 51,993

Funds at 31 December 2011 - 34,573 34,573 33,051

All transactions are derived from continuing activities

All recognised gains or losses are included in the Statement of Financial Activities

2011

- 6 -

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

BALANCE SHEET

AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2011

Notes £ £ £ £

Fixed Assets

Tangible assets 6 36,690 36,690

Currents Assets

Stock 7 659 -

Debtors 8 5,127 2,311

Cash at bank and in hand 7,887 4,452

13,673 6,763

Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 9 (15,790) (10,402)

Net current liabilities (2,117) (3,639)

Net assets 34,573 33,051

Funds

Unrestricted funds 34,573 33,051

Restricted funds 10 - -

34,573 33,051

Clive Needham

Director

Company No: 06311286

- 7 -

20102011

For the financial year ended 31 December 2011 the charitable company was entitled to exemption from audit under

section 477 of the Companies Act 2006. No member of the charitable company has deposited a notice, pursuant to

section 476, requiring an audit of these financial statements under the requirements of the Companies Act 2006.

The directors acknowledge their responsibilities for ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records

which comply with section 386 of the Act and for preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the

state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of the financial year and of its profit or loss for the financial year

in accordance with the requirements of section 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the

Companies Act 2006 relating to accounts, so far as applicable to the charitable company.

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies

Act 2006 relating to small companies and with the Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April

2008).

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 2 May 2012 and were signed on its behalf by:

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

1 Accounting policies

1.1 Basis of preparation

1.2 Incoming resources

-

1.3 Resources expended

-

-

-

1.5 Funds accounting

1.4 Tangible fixed assets

Office equipment and vehicles 1 - 4 years on a straight line basis

Lions and lionesses Not depreciated

1.5 Stock

Stock is valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

1.6 Animals

2 Net incoming resources for the period

2011 2010

This is stated after charging: £ £

Independent Examination 1,560 1,748

Governance costs include those incurred in the governance of the charity and are primarily associated with

constitutional and statutory requirements.

Certain expenditure is directly attributable to specific activities and has been included in those cost categories.

Certain other costs, which are attributable to more than one activity, are apportioned across cost categories on the

basis of an estimate of the proportion of time spent by staff on those activities.

Individual fixed assets costing £100 or more are capitalised at cost. Depreciation is provided at rates calculated to

write off the cost of the assets over their estimated useful lives as follows:

Unrestricted general funds are funds which can be used in accordance with the charitable objects at the discretion

of the Trustees.

Restricted funds are funds that can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity.

Restriction arises when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes.

- 8 -

The cost of acquisition of animals is capitalised to the extent a value can be placed upon them. Subsequent births

and deaths are not included on the Balance Sheet.

The financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention and in accordance with the

Financial Reporting Standard for Smaller Entities (effective April 2008), the Statement of Recommended Practice

‘Accounting and Reporting by Charities’ (SORP 2005) issued by the Charity Commission in March 2005,

Companies Act 2006 and Charities Act 1993.

All incoming resources are included in the Statement of Financial Activities when the charity is entitled to the

income and the amount can be quantified with reasonable accuracy. The following specific policies are applied to

particular categories of income:

Voluntary income including donations and gifts is included in full in the Statement of Financial Activities

when receivable.

Expenditure is accounted for an accruals basis. The irrecoverable element of VAT is included with the item of

expense to which it relates.

Costs of generating funds are those costs incurred in attracting voluntary income.

Charitable expenditure comprises of those costs incurred by the charity in the delivery of its activities and

services for its beneficiaries. It includes both costs allocated directly to such activities and those costs of an

indirect nature necessary to support them.

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

3 Resources expended 2010

Staff

Costs

Direct

Costs

Support

Costs Total Total

£ £ £ £ £

Costs of generating funds

Marketing 3,952 6,408 - 10,360 3,665

Fundraising 3,733 3,164 - 6,897 5,129

Events - 3,640 - 3,640 -

Merchandise cost of sales - 507 - 507 -

7,685 13,719 - 21,404 8,794

1,760 4,639 - 6,399 24,475

Costs of charitable activities

Projects 11,269 62,629 - 73,898 21,719

Transfer to other ALERT organisations - - 39,404 39,404 47,072

Other - 130 - 130 -

11,269 62,759 39,404 113,432 68,791

Governance costs

Wages 3,151 - - 3,151 918

Travelling - - 1,478 1,478 -

Communications - - 70 70 77

Staff costs - - 45 45 514

Bank charges - - 1,231 1,231 581

Legal costs - - 1,153 1,153 6,524

Accountancy costs - - 5,668 5,668 1,748

3,151 - 9,645 12,796 10,362

23,865 81,117 49,049 154,031 112,422

4 Staff costs 2011 2010

£ £

Salaries 23,865 14,610

None of the directors has received any emoluments during the period or reimbursed expenses.

5 Taxation

2011

All employees are based overseas. The average number of employees calculated on a full time equivalent basis

was 5 (2010: 4). No employees received remuneration amounting to more than £60,000 in the period.

The company is a registered charity and under Section 505 of the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988 is

exempt from corporation tax.

- 9 -

Costs of operating research and educational

programs programs

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

6 Tangible fixed assets

Fixtures, fittings

and equipment

Lions and

lionesses Total

£ £ £

Cost

At 1 January 2011 2,926 36,690 39,616

At 31 December 2011 2,926 36,690 39,616

Depreciation

At 1 January 2011 2,926 - 2,926

At 31 December 2011 2,926 - 2,926

Net Book Value

At 31 December 2011 - 36,690 36,690

At 31 December 2010 - 36,690 36,690

7 Stock 2011 2010

£ £

Merchandising stock 659 -

8 Debtors 2011 2010

£ £

Prepayments 4,980 2,235

Gift aid recoverable - 76

ALERT Zambia 147 -

5,127 2,311

9 Creditors: amounts falling due within one year 2011 2010

£ £

Net wages - 1,260

Deferred income 12,308 6,520

Accruals 3,482 2,622

15,790 10,402

10 Restricted funds Balance

brought

forward Incoming Outgoing

Balance

carried

forward

£ £ £ £

Research vehicle - 35,014 (35,014) -

Katy Fairweather - 7,198 (7,198) -

Ngamo release site - 20,681 (20,681) - - 62,893 (62,893) -

Research vehicle

Katy Fairweather

Ngamo release site

- 10 -

During the year 15 cubs were born and 10 of these died. In accordance with the accounting policy the cubs have

not been included on the Balance Sheet.

These funds were received by another agency, they were then transferred to ALERT

Zimbabwe who made the purchase of a research vehicle.

These funds were spent on various projects within the Ngamo release site.

These funds were for use for community programs around our project site at Antelope

Park and a smaller amount to be used for the Ngamo lion release site.

AFRICAN LION ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH TRUST

NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2011

11 Analysis of net assets between funds Restricted Unrestricted Total

£ £ £

Fixed assets - 36,690 36,690

Current assets - 13,673 13,673

Liabilities - (15,790) (15,790)

- 34,573 34,573

12 Related party transactions

ALERT USA 390

ALERT Zambia 4,000

ALERT Zimbabwe 35,014 39,404

Antelope Park 11,406

ALERT Victoria Falls 8,747

ALERT Zambia 11,273 31,426

Antelope Park 11,551

Lion Encounter Zambia 1,240 12,791

12 Donated services

- 11 -

Mr A Conolly is also a director of African Encounter. During the year £6,500 was send to African Encounter to

spend on ALERT community programs around Antelope Park.

During the year in-kind donations were received for costs that benefit ALERT but have been borne by commercial

partners. These donations were for maintenance of water hole pumps in a release site, room and board for

researchers, maintenance of roads and fire breaks in a release site. The value of these has been estimated at

£8,326 and has been included in the SOFA under general donations and costs of charitable activities.

During the year cash funds totalling £39,404 were donated to the following companies, of which Mr A Conolly and

Mr D Scott are directors.

Donations totalling £31,426 were received from companies of which Mr A Conolly is a director.

During the year funds totalling £26,873 were paid to companies of which Mr A Conolly is a director to purchase

services supplied by those companies that advance the charity's activities, to operate the charity's commercial

programs or to spend on the charity's activities on behalf of the charity.

Mr C R Needham and Mr C A Cain are directors of CM Management (IOM) Limited. During the year the company

incurred costs totalling £4,108 in respect of administration and banking services. At 31 December 2011 the

company owed CM Management (IOM) Limited £182.

AFRICA NEEDS LIONS

African Lion & Environmental Research Trust Melrose Farm

1134 Nakatindi Road PO Box 60701

Livingstone Zambia

E: info@lionalert.org W: www.lionalert.org

Registered Offices

African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (UK)

39 St. James’s Place London

SW1A 1NS United Kingdom

UK Charity Commission Number 1120572

African Lion & Environmental Research Trust (Zambia)

7th Floor, Godfrey House Kabelenga / Longolongo Roads

P.O. Box 33066 Lusaka

Zambia

Zambia Charity Registration Number ORS/102/35/3583