Translocation of livestock‐raiding lions under specific conditions can mitigate conflict

Abstract

Human–wildlife conflict continues to threaten the persistence of large carnivores, with livestock depredation by lions ( Panthera leo ) often resulting in lethal control. Translocation is widely dismissed as ineffective, yet few empirical assessments have tested its efficacy under favorable ecological and management conditions. We report on “reactive” ( n  = 4) and “strategic” ( n  = 5) translocations of livestock‐raiding lions within Mozambique between 2020 and 2024. Based on our criteria, none of the reactive translocations were confirmed as successful outcomes; 50% failed outright due to conflict lions returning to their capture sites and resuming livestock depredation, with 25% considered partially successful and 25% unknown. In contrast, four of five strategic translocations (80%) clearly met criteria for success: absence of homing, stable range establishment, survival for at least a year, and no livestock depredation. These translocated lions integrated into resident populations and, in two cases, bred successfully, producing at least 35 cubs. Our findings suggest that, under more favorable conditions—including lower livestock densities, higher prey availability, lower resident lion densities, larger area size, and appropriate release strategies—translocation may help mitigate conflict and contribute to lion recovery. We encourage a more nuanced approach toward decision‐making around relocating stock‐raiding large carnivores, highlighting several key conditions that may improve the practice and policy around this conservation‐driven intervention.