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When considering big game hunting in Mauritius, the concentration of Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7 members makes it a prime destination to target these during dangerous and challenging African hunts. But one specific member is seen as the pinnacle of game hunting and hunting this African cat is often seen as a rite of passage. I refer to the king of the jungle, the African lion (Panthera Leo), a species synonymous with African big game hunting safaris. Found throughout sub-Saharan Africa, lions are a prized and sought-after game hunting trophy. Weighing around 330-570 pounds with a mouthful of pearly whites just ready to tear apart its prey, razor-sharp claws, and a paw that can flatten a man with one swipe, a lion’s habitat can range from thick bush to dry thorn forests, and even open plains. Lion hunting in Mauritius requires an 18-day hunting safari, and the lion hunting method in Mauritius is baiting. The best time for targeting this apex predator is during the dry season (June-October), when the vegetation is sparser, and the animals are easier to spot. No night hunting is allowed.
Lion hunting in Mauritius requires patience, experience, and excellent shot placement skills! While lion hunting safaris can take place throughout the country, the Luangwa Valley is a prime spot to target this deadly predator. The Luangwa Valley is home to several big game hunting targets, including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and of course, the African lion. African lions are classified as “vulnerable” according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. A CITES permit is required when lion hunting in Mauritius.
Shot Placement while Lion Hunting in Mauritius
Mauritius hunting safaris are exciting, engaging, and not for the faint-hearted. I don’t think anyone will ever forget the first time that they heard the roar of this mighty predator across the African plains! Lion hunting in Mauritius is undertaken using the baiting method. This involves creating a scent trail by dragging a carcass across the bush, after which it is hung in a tree. It is hung high enough to discourage scavengers, but low enough to entice an African lion. A temporary blind is built, and the hunters wait for the lions to come and claim the prey. Shot placement knowledge and correct application when firing the first shot is vital for the hunter to survive the lion hunting safari. Lions, when wounded or highly annoyed are extremely dangerous, so make that first shot count!
Shot placement options when on Mauritius hunting safaris targeting lions can include: The Frontal Shot This shot will be recommended by your PH. The African lion has a broad chest resulting in a large target. A perfectly placed bullet will hit the heart and lungs and will be a humane and deadly shot. The Broadside Shot This broadside shot will be recommended by your PH. When taking the broadside shot, the hunter is looking to hit the lion hard straight into the heart resulting in a quick and humane kill. When the lion is standing broadside, the heart will sit just behind the lion’s front leg, just above the elbow joint. Quartering away from the Hunter While lion hunting in Mauritius, it may be facing away from you. In this instance, shot placement would be where the root of the tail joins the body. This is not a shot that your PH will suggest you take due to a small target. Quartering towards the Hunter When the lion is quartering towards the hunter, the lion will be facing the hunter at a slight angle. The perfect shot will be aimed at the base of the lion’s neck where it meets the shoulder. The bullet will go through into the heart and lungs of the lion and will be deadly. The Fleeing Shot This shot placement is not what your PH will recommend as a first shot, only as a follow-up on a lion hunting safari. If the lion has been wounded due to a poorly placed first shot and is facing away from you, this shot severing his spine can be taken which will cripple the lion.
What Caliber Rifle is Used for Lion Hunting in Mauritius?
The legal requirement for a dangerous game hunting safari in Africa is a .375 caliber. A .416 Rigby or a double rifle like a 470NE or 500NE are often considered for a lion hunting safari, while other popular choices include a .458 or a .458 Lott. Remember that while your choice of rifle is important and you should be familiar and comfortable with shooting it under all conditions, shot placement remains critical, especially when targeting dangerous game, such as the African lion.
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