Lion guardians

Brent Stirton's Image

Maasai Lion Guardians are tracking radio-collared lions.

Traditional spearing by Maasai warriors, often in retaliation for cattle killings, is the greatest threat to the survival of lions in southern Kenya. The Lion Guardians conservation programme recruits Maasai men, many former lion‑killers, to track the lions, collect DNA samples, and produce identity cards for them. This confers a sense of ownership and pride among the men, forming a vanguard to prevent other Maasai from hunting lions.


Behind the lens

Brent Stirton

Brent Stirton

South Africa

Brent is a Senior Correspondent for Getty Images. He does most of his work for National Geographic Magazine, focusing on the intersection of humans and the environment.

Image details

  • Canon EOS 5D Mark III
  • 24–70mm f2.8 lens
  • 1/30 sec at f22
Copyright in WPY competition photographs remains the property of the respective photographers. You may not copy, share, reproduce or republish the photographs except as expressly permitted by copyright law. For media image usage enquiries, please contact us.

More images from Brent Stirton

View all

Support our important work


Help us harness the power of photography to advance scientific knowledge, spread awareness of important issues and nurture a global love for nature.

Donate now

Sign up to our newsletter

Receive email updates about Wildlife Photographer of the Year news, events, science, products, services and fundraising activities. We may occasionally include third-party content from our corporate partners and other museums. We will not share your personal details with these third parties. You must be over the age of 13. Privacy notice.