The Man-Eater of Mfuwe
The largest man-eating lion on record, the Man-Eater of Mfuwe (pronounced Muh-Fuh-way) terrorized the residents of Zambia’s Laungwa River Valley in 1991. After devouring its sixth known victim, this lion paraded through the streets, roaring and carrying a clothes bag that it had taken from the victim’s home. This behavior convinced the local residents that the lion was a demon or sorcerer.In the past, residents would have been able to kill the lion themselves. But hunting is now severely restricted. The Zambian government allows only safari hunting for the income it generates. Lacking the resources and ability to protect themselves residents were relieved when former Chicagoan Wayne Hosek shot and killed the lion during a safari in the region.
The Tsavo Research Program:
Solving the Puzzle of Man-Eating
To better understand modern human-wildlife relationships and to help guide public policies for conservation and development, The Field Museum and the Kenya Wildlife Service have joined forces through the Tsavo Research Program. The Tsavo Research Program pursues research, disseminates information, and offers professional training on fundamental issues involving Africa's wildlife and people.In Tsavo National Park, Field Museum scientists and their Kenyan colleagues are documenting attacks on livestock and humans. detailed data on prey selection and reviews of man-eating throughout Africa are revealing patterns in the frequency of lion attacks. This new info is being used to help cultivate greater public understanding of the need for a balanced relationship with lions and with the rest of the natural environment.
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