Contrary to the notion that livestock and wildlife are incompatible, Sosian, along with other properties in Laikipia, is committed to showcasing their mutual benefit. Sean Outram, the Ranch Manager at Sosian, sheds light on the pivotal role cattle play in wildlife conservation within Laikipia.
Situated in the heart of the Laikipia region, Sosian Ranch spans 24,000 acres and forms an integral part of the expansive 56,000 square km Ewaso ecosystem in Northern Kenya. Contrary to the notion that livestock and wildlife are incompatible, Sosian, along with other properties in Laikipia, is committed to showcasing their mutual benefit.
Laikipia boasts the highest diversity of large mammals in Kenya, hosting the renowned Big Five alongside wild dogs, cheetahs, spotted and striped hyenas, jackals, and caracals—traditional livestock predators once persecuted for this very reason. Two decades ago, wildlife was undesirable on most Laikipia farms, primarily focused on cattle and sheep production. However, with the rise of tourism, perceptions have evolved, recognizing that wildlife and livestock coexist harmoniously in modern-day ranching.
The rationale behind this coexistence is straightforward. As custodians of the land, ensuring its long-term survival requires optimal productivity and contributions to Kenya’s economy. Diversifying activities not only achieves this but also enhances business stability to address the challenges posed by both tourism and farming.
Sosian distinguishes itself with a unique approach—few internal or external fences impede wildlife movement. Herders diligently manage cattle throughout the day, while at night, portable predator-proof enclosures, known as bomas, secure the cattle. In the past, Acacia trees were extensively used for bomas, but their unreliability and un-sustainability led to increased losses due to predator interference. This resulted in the removal of ‘problem animals’; destabilising lion prides and exacerbating conflicts with livestock.
In response, Sosian implemented innovative bomas, coupled with effective daytime herding, fostering stability among lion prides. The result is multiple prides of lions on Sosian that no longer view cattle as easy prey.
Beyond predator management, encouraging wildlife and livestock symbiosis aids in effective grazing management. Cattle are utilized to clear tall, old grasslands, benefiting primary browsers and grazers such as Grevy’s and Burchell’s zebras, eland, and beisa oryx. This method, replacing controlled burns, proves more advantageous for both livestock and wildlife over time.
The provision of pumped water, a necessity for livestock, concurrently benefits the game. Controlled water availability allows leveraging wildlife to preserve grazing for dry seasons. Strategic planning ensures that cattle don’t compete for resources near the permanent Ewaso Narok River during dry periods, safeguarding vital water sources for species like hippo and buffalo.
Elephants, numbering around 6000 in the Ewaso ecosystem, contribute to keeping areas of the farm open, preventing bush encroachment that could reduce stocking capacity. It’s not uncommon to witness cattle grazing alongside elephant herds, showcasing the harmonious coexistence fostered by this integrated approach.
In conclusion, the system at Sosian is a success story. Despite lower livestock stocking rates compared to the past, the income generated is higher, allowing for reinvestment into the land to ensure the long-term survival of all Sosian and Laikipia residents—human and wildlife alike.
