The Matshapiri Males

[Tshokwane]

Lion Update: What Will Happen Next?: by Kevin Power.


Trying to understand lion dynamics in the central Sabi Sands at the moment is a bit like trying to understand quantum physics. Beyond the understanding of most people, and even for those in the know, most of it is still theory.


The last month or so has seen quite a few shifts and movements in the prides and coalitions on and around Londolozi. Even though we’ve long since given up trying to predict what will happen next, the sightings have been pretty incredible.

A lioness from the Mhangeni Breakaway pride stretches before heading off for the evening. Photographby Grant Rodewijk.

*This image is copyright of its original author

The Mhangeni break away pride have ben spending most of their time with the Matshipiri males. Photograph by Grant Rodewijk.

*This image is copyright of its original author

Following on from James Tyrrell’s blog a few days ago, the one shift that has surprised us all and raised many questions is the move of the Matimba males back north. We are not sure of the reason for their departure or if their return is ever going to happen. We do however know that they have left 5 young cubs with the two Tsalala lionesses without their fathers to protect them; what is to be the fate of these youngsters?

One of the Matshipiri males patrols his territory, scent marking and calling along the way. Photograph by Alistair Smith.

*This image is copyright of its original author

Two of the Mhangeni Breakaway females have been seen mating with the coalition over the last week or so. Photograph by Grant Rodewijk.

*This image is copyright of its original author

One of the lionesses and males take a rest together during their tiring mating ritual. Photograph by Grant Rodewijk.

*This image is copyright of its original author

With the absence of the Matimbas, the Mhangeni breakaway lionesses have been spending time with the Matshipiri males, one or two of the females even mating with the coalition from the East. This unfortunately would mean that the two lionesses that had cubs sired by the Matimbas must have not made it. This would explain the two coming into oestrus quickly and wanting to mate with the dominant males who are now occupying the territory that the pride is frequenting. The Matshipiri males seem to be focussing their time more on the younger Mhangeni breakaway lionesses as opposed to the Sparta pride further south. Reply