Deep in the heart of Botswana’s vast wilderness, a pack of painted wolves emerges from the bush. In the distance, the roar of a lion signals he’s out patrolling his territory. These incredible hunters – the African wild dog and the lion – are among the most revered yet endangered species on the continent. But they’re not alone in their fight for survival.
Today, we’re going on a wild adventure into the heart of Botswana’s stunning wilderness with Glyn Maude, PhD – a passionate wildlife researcher and conservationist who has dedicated his life to protecting some of Africa’s most iconic species.
Born in Zambia and raised in Zimbabwe, Glyn’s love for the great outdoors began at a young age. After studying zoology in the UK, he made his way to Botswana in 1997 to work as a guide at Jack’s Camp in the Makgadikgadi Pans. Following, he decided to pursue his PhD and conducted groundbreaking research on brown hyaenas.
Now, Glyn is the co-director of Kalahari Research and Conservation, a non-profit organization that plays a crucial role in safeguarding Botswana’s wildlife and ecosystems. Through their tireless efforts, KRC works hand-in-hand with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to ensure a sustainable future for some of the country’s most vulnerable species.
In this episode, Glyn and I chat about the fascinating world of wild dog and lion conservation, and explore the challenges and triumphs of protecting these magnificent predators. Glyn also shares his insights on predator-prey dynamics, the importance of community engagement for coexistence, and the incredible discoveries his team has made through their extensive research efforts.
Alright, everyone. Please enjoy this conversation with Glyn.