Lions of Manyeleti

[Rabubi]

(02-04-2025, 09:14 PM)Tr1x24 Wrote:

(02-04-2025, 02:24 PM)Rabubi Wrote: With reference to this comment on the Mbiri Males and the conversation we all had about the PCMs a few days ago, I am seriously wondering if there is a real tradeoff between early development/territoriality and longevity among male lions.

I dont think so.

HB Matimba developed very early on, and he reached 14 yrs of age, same as S.Shishangeni, who is still alive.

I think diseases (almost all Kruger lions have some sort of disease) and how it affects lions is key for longevity, alongside genes.

Healthy males with good genes will reach 13-14 yrs without a problem, if nothing happens to them.

I totally agree that genetics and disease play a big factor but to be fair, HB Matimba looked every bit of 14 years while S. Shishangeni male, while being the same age, seems to have found the Fountain of Youth in Southern KNP. 

Along with genetics and diseases, I think that mileage (covering ground and constant fights) also influences longevity. Reply

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[Mapokser]

@Tr1x24 HB indeed reached 14 but he wasn't in the best of conditions, and as soon as he got ousted, he died.

Which makes me think, what sort of nature's freak the S.Shishangeni is? 14, a nomad for idk how long ( more than a year )? And videos from him a few days ago show him as an absolute tank without a hint of deterioration, you look at him and see a huge prime male.

So I'm not sure it's disease or just plain genetics, look at eastern african lions, such as in Mara, few reach that age, in fact I think we might be able to name many more Kruger lions that reached 14 than Eastern lions.

I think if the lion has a disease, he ain't getting over even 10yo, never mind as a nomad. Reply

[BA0701]

(5 hours ago)Mapokser Wrote: @Tr1x24 HB indeed eached 14 but he wasn't in the best of conditions, and as soon as he got ousted, he died.

Which makes me think, what sort of nature's freak the S.Shishangeni is? 14, a nomad for idk how long ( more than a year )? And videos from him a few days ago show him as an absolute tank without a hint of deterioration, you look at him and see a huge prime male.

So I'm not sure it's disease or just plain genetics, look at eastern african lions, such as in Mara, few reach that age, in fact I think we might be able to name many more Kruger lions that reached 14 than Eastern lions.

I think if the lion has a disease, he ain't getting over even 10yo, never mind as a nomad.

Were the N Shishangenis younger than their southern brother? They were always in amazing shape as well, and looked to have a few years left, yet, until they bit off more than they could chew with the Gomos, what a terrible day that was. Reply