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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
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
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