Long-term species distribution model of the lion (Panthera leo): assessing anthropogenic impacts and range fluctuations over four eras

Abstract

Using a maximum entropy framework and connectivity analysis, this (Panthera leo) suitable habitat distributions were created for four distinct time periods: the last interglacial period, the last glacial maximum period, the mid-Holocene, and the present day. Distributions are largest during the last glacial maximum and smallest and most fragment in the modern models. Introduction of anthropogenic variables to the modern model further exacerbates this trend. Lions’ interactions with bioclimatic variables is recorded in each era, with lions being most sensitive to temperature variability as well as the presence of savanna (in modern models).