4 - Colonial Legacy of Lion Hunting in Western Africa and Western India

Paper Abstract: The practice of colonial lion hunting has left a profound and complex legacy in both Western Africa and Western India. The European sought not only to hunt lions for sport but also to assert their dominance over the land and its wildlife. Fierce hunting activities during colonial times brought the lions in both these areas to the brink of extinction. The lion population, which was quite large before the arrival of the European, is now less than 1000 in both habitats, with about 300 in Western Africa and about 600 in Western India. The P.I. senegalensis is found in Western Africa and P.I. leo subspecies is found in Western Asia, for which conservation efforts are currently being made through the W-Arly-Pendjari-complex in western Africa, Niokola- Koba National Park and Gir National Park in western India. The research will involve a literature review of scholarly articles, colonial records, and historical accounts. Additionally, ecological data will be analysed to assess long-term effects on wildlife population. This paper aims to explore the historical practices of lion hunting in western part of Africa and India during the colonial period, its implications for local ecosystems, indigenous cultures, and contemporary wildlife conservation efforts. Furthermore, it aims to promote awareness of the importance of integrating local knowledge and cultural practices into contemporary conservation strategies.