Leopard Ecology & Conservation (LEC) was initiated in 2000. The project seeks to promote the long-term survival of leopard and lion populations in Botswana by integrating research, conservation activities and community empowerment. LEC works in Khutse Game Reserve (GR) and in surrounding areas, including grazing communal land and the southern section of the Central Kalahari Game Reserve. Our research camp lies approximately 300 m outside the Khutse GR Gate. Other than DWNP staff, our closest neighbours live in the village of Kaudwane, 5 km away.