Yiannis Kapakos | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Yiannis Kapakos | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Yiannis Kapakos | Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Inland Waters | Greece

Dr. Yiannis Kapakos is a distinguished ichthyologist with extensive expertise in fish biology, ecology, and conservation. His research primarily focuses on fish reproduction, species identification, and the protection of endemic and threatened species, integrating both freshwater and marine systems. He has advanced knowledge in fish embryology, aquaculture, aquarium science, and fisheries management, employing techniques such as electrofishing, biometric analysis, and otolith-based age determination, along with modern computational tools including GIS, ImageJ, and R for data analysis. Dr. Yiannis Kapakos has contributed significantly to ecological monitoring, sustainable fisheries practices, and conservation-oriented research projects, including LIFE, NATURA, and H2020 initiatives, aiming to develop practical management strategies for aquatic ecosystems. His work encompasses both applied and fundamental research, from designing and managing closed fish breeding systems to implementing species reintroduction and enrichment programs. He has also actively engaged in public outreach and professional training, supporting the education of fishery practitioners and promoting awareness of sustainable practices. Dr. Yiannis Kapakos has authored over two dozen peer-reviewed publications and presented at numerous national and international conferences, highlighting topics such as invasive species management, behavioral ecology of threatened fish, and freshwater biodiversity conservation, and his work has garnered 71 citations across 62 documents, with 15 publications contributing to an h-index of 5. His research integrates fieldwork, laboratory experimentation, and advanced analytical methodologies to address pressing environmental and conservation challenges, making significant contributions to ichthyology, aquatic resource management, and the broader scientific understanding of fish populations and ecosystem health.

Profiles: Scopus | Orcid | Google Scholar

Featured Publications

Barbieri, R., Zogaris, S., Kalogianni, E., Stoumboudi, M. T., Chatzinikolaou, Y., … (2015). Freshwater fishes and lampreys of Greece: An annotated checklist. 126.

Economou, A. N., Zogaris, S., Vardakas, L., Koutsikos, N., Chatzinikolaou, Y., … (2016). Developing policy-relevant river fish monitoring in Greece: Insights from a nation-wide survey. Mediterranean Marine Science, 17(1), 302-322.

Barbieri, R., Vukić, J., Šanda, R., Kapakos, Y., Zogaris, S. (2017). Alburnoides economoui, a new species of spirlin from Central Greece and redescription of Alburnoides thessalicus (Actinopterygii: Cyprinidae). Biologia, 72(9), 1075-1088.

Leris, I., Kalogianni, E., Tsangaris, C., Smeti, E., Laschou, S., Anastasopoulou, E., … (2019). Acute and sub-chronic toxicity bioassays of olive mill wastewater on the Eastern mosquitofish Gambusia holbrooki. Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety, 175, 48-57.

Kalogianni, E., Kapakos, Y., Oikonomou, A., Giakoumi, S., Zimmerman, B. (2022). Dramatic decline of two freshwater killifishes, main anthropogenic drivers and appropriate conservation actions. Journal for Nature Conservation, 67, 126191.

 

Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

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Mr. Zhiyuan Qi | Ecology | Best Researcher Award

Jianghan University | China 

Mr. Zhiyuan Qi is a dedicated Master Candidate in Biology at the College of Life Sciences, Jianghan University, specializing in aquatic biological resources protection. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology from Liaoning University, her undergraduate research focused on the anti-hepatoma activity of intracellular polysaccharides from Paecilomyces hepiali. Her academic journey reflects a strong commitment to aquatic ecology, with active participation in the Yangtze River “Ten-Year Fishing Moratorium” monitoring project aimed at supporting sustainable aquatic ecosystem management. Mr. Zhiyuan Qi has contributed to the field through publications, including one in an EI-indexed journal and another in the international journal Animals, showcasing her research in fish community ecology and freshwater ecosystem restoration. Her scholarly excellence was recognized through the “Excellent Graduate Report” Award at an academic meeting of the Fisheries Resources and Environment Branch of the China Society of Fisheries. Mr. Zhiyuan Qi research focuses on the ecological monitoring of freshwater systems, providing crucial data for resource management and biodiversity conservation in the Three Gorges Reservoir head area. Through her scientific contributions, she strives to advance understanding of aquatic ecosystem dynamics, offering insights that promote effective conservation policies and sustainable management practices for regional aquatic resources.

Profile: Orcid 

Featured Publications

Qi, Z., Zhai, D., Liu, H., Xiong, F., Liao, C., Tian, H., & Duan, X. (2025). Fish community structure and nested distribution pattern of the three tributaries at the head of the Three Gorges Reservoir. Journal of Lake Sciences, 33, Article 032.

Cai, F., Qi, Z., Hu, Z., Zhai, D., Chen, Y., Xiong, F., & Liu, H. (2025, September). Revealing phenotypic differentiation in Ochetobius elongatus from the Middle Yangtze River through geometric morphometrics. Animals, 15(19), 2870.

Károly Penksza | Botany | Best Researcher Award

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Prof. Dr. Károly Penksza | Botany | Best Researcher Award

Researcher | Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences | Hungary

Dr. Károly Penksza is a distinguished Hungarian botanist and professor whose career exemplifies a profound dedication to plant sciences, landscape ecology, and environmental conservation. His academic journey encompasses extensive research, teaching, and professional service across leading Hungarian institutions, where he has guided departments, led research projects, and mentored students in botany, floristics, phenology, herbalism, biomonitoring, and conservation. He has played a pivotal role in developing curricula for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, overseeing field courses in landscape assessment, habitat evaluation, and species conservation, and coordinating international correspondence courses. Dr. Károly Penksza research integrates plant systematics, community ecology, and environmental assessment, contributing to the sustainable management of Hungary’s natural landscapes and Natura2000 sites. He has actively engaged in professional and expert roles, including project leadership, environmental consultancy, and participation in regional and national conservation programs. Fluent in multiple languages, he combines teaching, research, and applied environmental expertise to advance knowledge of plant geography and ecological management. Throughout his career, he has published extensively in peer-reviewed journals, earning 1,056 citations by 770 documents, with 117 publications and an h-index of 17, contributing to scientific understanding and applied conservation practices. His work continues to bridge theoretical research with practical applications, promoting biodiversity, habitat protection, and sustainable agricultural and environmental management in Hungary and beyond.

Profile: Scopus | Orcid

Featured Publications

Penksza, K., Szabó-Szöllösi, T., Neményi, A., Sipos, L., Szentes, S., Wagenhoffer, Z., Palla, B., Balogh, D. Á., & Saláta-Falusi, E. (2025). Evaluating inflorescence morphology in two species and subspecies of the genus Hierochloë R. Brown. Plants.

Szentes, S., Penksza, K., Saláta-Falusi, E., Sipos, L., Kozma-Bognár, V., Hoffmann, R., & Wagenhoffer, Z. (2025). Effects of Bothriochloa ischaemum on the diversity of Pannonian sandy grasslands. Land.

Szentes, S., Kevi, A., Wagenhoffer, Z., Saláta-Falusi, E., Pajor, F., Berke, J., Turcsányi-Járdi, I., Penksza, P., Kunos, V., Kende, Z., et al. (2024). Assessing the impact of grazing and restoration methods on Pannonian grasslands. Land.

Saláta-Falusi, E., Bajor, Z., Penksza, K., Balogh, Á. D., Sipos, L., Kende, Z., Fuchs, M., Penksza, P., Szabó-Szöllösi, T., & Saláta, D. (2024). Impact of conservation management on the regeneration of a protected Pannonian open sandy grassland. Preprint.

Takács, A., Wagenhoffer, Z., Bajnok, M., Penksza, K., Saláta-Falusi, E., & Szentes, S. (2024). Különböző gyepkezelések gyepgazdálkodási eredményei Aba melletti kaszálón. Animal Welfare, Etológia és Tartástechnológia (AWETH).

 

Suleiman Usman | Soil and Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Suleiman Usman | Soil and Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University Dutse, Jigsaw State Nigeria📝

Dr. Suleiman Usman is an accomplished soil scientist and researcher with expertise in soil and water resources management. His academic journey spans top institutions across Nigeria, the UK, and South Africa, shaping his extensive knowledge in agriculture and environmental science. With over a decade of experience in research and teaching, he has contributed significantly to advancing soil science, particularly in sustainable land management practices. Dr. Usman currently serves as a Senior Lecturer at Federal University Dutse, Nigeria, and actively participates in numerous international soil-related initiatives. 🌍🌱

Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Qualifications 🎓

Dr. Usman’s academic path includes a B.Agri. in Soil/Crop Science from Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Nigeria (1999–2004), an MSc in Natural Resources (Plant Health and Protection) from the University of Greenwich, UK (2006–2007), and a PhD in Soil Science (Soil and Water Resources Management) from Nasarawa State University (2023/2024). He also holds certificates in Environmental Security, Research Methodology, and Digital Transformation from prestigious global institutions like the UN Environment Programme and University of Pretoria. 📜🌍

Professional Experience 💼

Dr. Usman has made remarkable contributions as a Research Assistant at the University of Greenwich (2011–2014) and as a Senior Lecturer at Federal University Dutse, Nigeria (2015–2024). His roles include supervising students, coordinating academic programs, and conducting groundbreaking research. As a Research Fellow at the Centre for Agricultural Research and Extension Services (CARES), he focused on innovative solutions for agricultural development. 📚🌿

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Usman’s research interests encompass soil health, sustainable land management, and the impact of environmental factors on agriculture. His work integrates advanced methodologies, including digital soil mapping, soil biodiversity, and sustainable fertilizer use, to improve agricultural practices and promote food security. 🌾📊

Awards and Recognitions 🏆

Dr. Usman’s dedication to excellence has earned him several national and international accolades, including the National Youth Service Certificate of Merit (2005) and certifications from FAO and Research4Life programs for his contributions to soil science and sustainable development. His leadership in global soil initiatives reflects his commitment to addressing critical environmental challenges. 🌟🌍

Publications 📖

Corporate attributes and share value of listed pharmaceutical firms in Nigeria
Published in: Journal of Arts, Science & Commerce, 2016. Cited by: 41.

Roles of soil biota and biodiversity in soil environment – A concise communication
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 32.

Effects of organophosphate herbicides on biological organisms in soil medium – A mini review
Published in: Journal of Ecology and Toxicology, 2017. Cited by: 30.

Sustainable Soil Management of the Dryland Soils in Northern Nigeria
Published by: GRIN Verlag, 2011. Cited by: 22.

Dynamic surface soil components of land and vegetation types in Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 21.

Surface soil factors and soil characteristics in geo-physical milieu of Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 2016. Cited by: 17.

Soil problems in dryland environment of sub-Saharan Africa: A review of the impact on soil erosion and desertification
Published in: Biol. Environ. Sci. J. Trop, 2017. Cited by: 8.

Preliminary experimental assessments of 12 different organic materials for soil quality and soil fertility management exercises
Published in: International Journal of Current Research and Review, 2013. Cited by: 7.

New method of soil classification in defining the dynamic condition of agricultural surface soils
Published in: J Environ Sci Toxicol Food Technol, 2013. Cited by: 7.

Socio-ecological indices of farmer-herder conflicts: Implications for conflict prevention in northern senatorial district of Kaduna state, Nigeria
Published by: Hub Rural, 2019. Cited by: 5.

Climate change and soil degradation impact: Farmers’ viewpoints in Kebbi State Nigeria
Published in: International Journal of Current Research and Review, 2013.

Conclusion

Dr. Suleiman Usman’s impressive academic credentials, global training experience, and commitment to soil and environmental research make him an outstanding nominee for the Best Researcher Award. Addressing gaps in published works and emphasizing tangible impacts will enhance his eligibility.

 

Suheela Shabir | Sustaiability | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Suheela Shabir | Sustaiability | Best Researcher Award

Assistant Professor, Princess Noura Bint Abdulrahman university, Saudi Arabia

Profile

Scopus

Dr. Suheela Shabir is an Assistant Professor in Marketing at the College of Business Administration, Princess Norah Bint Abdul Rahman University, Riyadh. With over 11 years of academic experience, she has taught at renowned institutions like the Srinagar School of Management and Technology. Her teaching and research interests span diverse fields, including General Business Management, Social Entrepreneurship, and Supply Chain Management.

Education 🎓

Dr. Shabir holds a Ph.D. in Agricultural Economics and Business Management from Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), completed in 2008. She also earned her Master’s degree in Agricultural Economics and Business Management from AMU in 2002, and a BA (Hons) in Economics from the same institution in 1999.

Experience 🏢

Dr. Shabir has been with Princess Norah Bint Abdul Rahman University since August 2018. Prior to this, she served as an Assistant Professor at the Business School of the Srinagar School of Management and Technology from 2010 to 2018, and worked as a Junior Research Fellow at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology from 2007 to 2009.

Research Interests 🔍

Her research interests include areas such as Business Environment, Economic Policy Analysis, Social Marketing, and Tourism. Dr. Shabir is dedicated to exploring how these fields intersect to enhance understanding and implementation in the business sector.

Awards 🏆

Dr. Shabir has received numerous accolades, including the National Eligibility Test (NET) and Junior Research Fellowship in 2002, and multiple academic scholarships for her outstanding performance during her studies. She has also been recognized for her contributions to NCAAA accreditation efforts.

Publications  Top Notes📝

Dr. Shabir has authored 13 research papers in esteemed journals. Some notable publications include:

Shabir, S., & Ali, J. (2021). “Determinants of early-stage entrepreneurship in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.” Managerial and Decision Economics. DOI:10.1002/mde.3474

Shabir, S., & Bishri, N. (2021). “Sustainable Retailing Performance of Zara During COVID-19.” Open Journal of Business and Management. DOI:10.4236/ojbm.2021.93054

Shabir, S., & Ali, J. (2022). “Financial Inclusion across Gender in Saudi Arabia.” International Journal of Social Economics. ISSN: 0306-8293

Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru | Biology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru | Biology | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Vlaicu Petru Alexandru, National Research and Development Institute for Animal Biology and Nutrition, Romania

Vlaicu Petru Alexandru is a dedicated researcher with a Ph.D. in Animal Science, affiliated with the National Research and Development Institute for Animal Biology and Nutrition, Romania. With over eight years of experience, his research focuses on enhancing consumer health and animal production by developing functional foods using alternative feed ingredients in poultry nutrition. He has contributed significantly to the field through over 90 scientific papers 📄, 13 patent applications 📝, and multiple collaborative projects with industry partners, demonstrating his commitment to advancing knowledge in animal science.

Prifle 🌟

Scopus

Education 🎓

Vlaicu Petru Alexandru holds a Master’s degree in Food Biosecurity 🥼 and completed his Ph.D. in Animal Science in 2018 🎓. His doctoral thesis, titled “Research on the development of functional foods of animal origin using alternative feed materials with positive environmental impact,” reflects his dedication to improving the quality of animal products while addressing environmental concerns 🌍. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his research in developing innovative solutions in the field of animal nutrition.

Professional Experience 💼

With over eight years in scientific research 🧑‍🔬, Vlaicu Petru Alexandru has made substantial contributions to animal science, particularly in the development of functional foods through alternative poultry nutrition 🍗. He has played a pivotal role in 25 research projects 🔍, with ongoing involvement in 5 national projects and 3 under evaluation 📊. As an assistant manager of a European-funded project 🇪🇺, he successfully coordinated contracts with farmers 🚜, leading to the production of novel feeds and foods now available in Romanian supermarkets 🛒. His experience also includes 6 industry collaborations resulting in market-ready products 🏪.

Research Interests 🔬

Vlaicu Petru Alexandru’s research interests lie in poultry nutrition 🐔, functional foods 🥚, food waste ♻️, by-products 🧴, and the in vitro digestibility of lipids 🧪. He focuses on improving the nutritional quality of animal products like eggs and meat by incorporating bioactive compounds such as omega-3 🐟, lutein 🌿, and vitamins D and E 🌞. His interdisciplinary approach addresses both health and environmental concerns, aiming to develop sustainable solutions in animal science 🌱.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Vlaicu Petru Alexandru has been recognized with 27 prizes 🥇, including gold, silver, and bronze medals at various international exhibitions 🌍 for his patent applications and research projects. In 2024, he was honored as the Best Reviewer 🏅 by Foods Journal, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence and peer review. His contributions to animal science have been widely acknowledged, cementing his reputation as a leading researcher in his field 🏅.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Influence of rosehip (Rosa canina L.) leaves as feed additive during first stage of laying hens on performances and egg quality characteristics

Chlorella vulgaris as a Nutraceutical Source for Broilers: Improving Meat Quality and Storage Oxidative Status

The Effects of Flax and Mustard Seed Inclusion in Dairy Goats’ Diet on Milk Nutritional Quality

Advancing Livestock Technology: Intelligent Systemization for Enhanced Productivity, Welfare, and Sustainability

Comparative Analysis of Black Chokeberry (Aronia melanocarpa L.) Fruit, Leaves, and Pomace for Their Phytochemical Composition, Antioxidant Potential, and Polyphenol Bioaccessibility

Blackcurrant (Fruits, Pomace, and Leaves) Phenolic Characterization before and after In Vitro Digestion, Free Radical Scavenger Capacity, and Antioxidant Effects on Iron-Mediated Lipid Peroxidation

Comparative Effects on Using Bilberry Leaves in Broiler Diet Reared under Thermoneutral Conditions vs. Heat Stress on Performance, Health Status and Gut Microbiota

Unsupervised Knowledge Extraction from Biomedical Data

Exploring the Antioxidant Potential of Blackberry and Raspberry Leaves: Phytochemical Analysis, Scavenging Activity, and In Vitro Polyphenol Bioaccessibility

Designing Nutrition for Health—Incorporating Dietary By-Products into Poultry Feeds to Create Functional Foods with Insights into Health Benefits, Risks, Bioactive Compounds, Food Component Functionality and Safety Regulations

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni | Ecology and Conservation | Women Researcher Award

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Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni | Ecology and Conservation | Women Researcher Award

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, General Manager: Scientifc Services, South African National Parks, South Africa

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni, renowned for her expertise in Ecology and Conservation, has been honored with the prestigious Women Researcher Award. Serving as the General Manager of Scientific Services at South African National Parks, she exemplifies dedication to biodiversity preservation and sustainable practices. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s leadership underscores her commitment to advancing ecological research and fostering conservation initiatives. Her contributions are pivotal in shaping environmental stewardship in South Africa and beyond. 🌿🏆

Profile

Google Scholar

Academic Record

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni has a rich academic background spanning over a decade, culminating in a DTech in Nature Conservation from Tshwane University of Technology. Her research journey began with a BSc in Zoology and Ecology from St. Francis Xavier University, Canada, followed by an Honors BSc in Wildlife Management and an MSc in Wildlife Management from the University of Pretoria. Her doctoral work focused on the emergence of bovine tuberculosis in lions at Kruger National Park, South Africa, from 2011 to 2015. 🦁 Her expertise extends to reintroducing captive-bred cheetahs into the wild, demonstrating a deep commitment to wildlife conservation and management.

Work Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of expertise to her role as General Manager of the Cape and Arid Research Units at South African National Parks. With a career spanning from ecological consulting to regional ecology, she excels in coordinating biodiversity conservation research across national parks. Her leadership emphasizes adaptive management principles, ensuring effective science-management interfaces. Previously a lecturer and research manager, she has nurtured future conservationists through training and mentoring. Dr. Maruping-Mzileni’s contributions extend globally, shaping conservation strategies and fostering a deep understanding of wildlife management. 🌿🔬

Teaching Experience

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni offers a range of specialized diploma and BTech courses focused on environmental conservation and wildlife management. The curriculum includes diverse programs such as Nature Conservation, Ecotourism Management, and Wildlife/Game Ranch Management. These courses are designed to equip students with practical skills and knowledge essential for preserving biodiversity and managing natural resources sustainably. Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni’s dedication to education in these fields ensures that graduates are prepared to tackle current and future challenges in conservation and ecotourism 🌿🦒.

Research Achievements

Dr. Nkabeng Thato Maruping-Mzileni’s research illuminates critical insights into the dynamics of African wildlife. 🦁 Her recent study explores the impact of ecological factors on Roan Antelope populations in Mokala National Park, South Africa, highlighting the intricate balance between environmental drivers and species survival. Previous works delve into diverse aspects of wildlife ecology, including disease transmission in lions, spatial patterns of large cats, and shifts in lion prey selection. 🌍 Through her comprehensive approach, Dr. Maruping-Mzileni contributes significantly to our understanding of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem management in African savannas.

Relevant Field skills

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience in Conservation Biology, spanning diverse regions like Canada, Namibia, and South Africa. 🌍 Her expertise includes telemetry, Cybertracker, CMore, and extensive surveys—both aerial and ground-based—focusing on various animal and vegetation surveying techniques. She specializes in the capture and monitoring of large, free-roaming mammals such as cheetahs, leopards, lions, rhinos, and various African ungulates. 🦁🦏 Dr. Maruping-Mzileni also excels in vegetation surveys, encompassing woody and herbaceous plants, plant taxonomy, classification, dynamics, and phenology. Additionally, her skills extend to captive animal care and handling, including species like vervet monkeys, chacma baboons, spotted hyenas, and more. 🌿

Community Engagement and Outreach

Dr. Nkabeng Maruping-Mzileni brings a wealth of experience and passion to her roles across various platforms. As a former board member of the International Wildlife Fellowship Foundation 🌍, her focus on promoting sustainable wildlife use for biodiversity conservation is evident. She also actively engages with the Next Einstein Forum, advocating for science and inspiring Lesotho’s youth since 2015 🧬. At the National University of Lesotho, she shares her expertise, emphasizing science as a catalyst for development 🎓. Her contributions to The Conversation Africa from 2014 to 2019 highlight her commitment to bridging scientific research with public awareness on conservation 📚.

Publications Top Notes

Livestock predation and its management in South Africa: A scientific assessment

Spatio-temporal separation between lions and leopards in the Kruger National Park and the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, South Africa

State-shifts of lion prey selection in the Kruger National Park

Uncovering hidden states in African lion movement data using hidden Markov models

Ecological drivers of female lion (Panthera leo) reproduction in the Kruger National Park

Effects of the number of people on efficient capture and sample collection: A lion case study

Spatial patterns of large African cats: a large‐scale study on density, home range size, and home range overlap of lions Panthera leo and leopards Panthera pardus

The implications of large home range size in a solitary felid, the Leopard (Panthera pardus)

Horizontal disease transmission in lions from behavioural interfaces via social network analysis

The ephemeral pans of Gras-Holpan: Mokala National Park, Northern Cape, South Africa

The re-introduction of captive bred cheetah into a wild environment, Makulu Makete Wildlife Reserve, Limpopo province, South Africa