Modelling predator-prey interactions on a Northern Province game ranch

A modelling approach was used to simulate the dynamics of a declining blue wildebeest population on a small game ranch under intense lion predation an d a cropping programme. Blue wildebeest numbers were obtained from helicopt er counts while lion numbers were obtained from field observations by manag ement staff. The modelled population showed similar trends to the counted p opulation over time. The modelled scenarios indicated that, to halt the dec line, it would be necessary to remove or keep lion numbers down to a figure that ensured that they function, as far as possible, as a single pride, an d secondly to cease blue wildebeest cropping.