Big cat and Bear tale

[Rage2277]

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Sloth Bear vs Kuwani cub!! We entered Zari gate with big expectations from Kuwani and cubs. Got Kuwani cubs resting in the bushes right away. After spending sometime, we decided to look for Kuwani as we had fresh pugmarks leaving the area where the cubs were resting. Just when we started moving away from the cubs, we had a sloth bear heading towards the waterbody near the cubs. Our guide Maruthi suggested we go back to the cubs and see if something interesting happens. That turned out to be a massive blessing as the cubs dashed out of the bushes and intently starting following the bear. All 3 had their eyes locked on to the Bear while the Bear happily was having his drink. Just when we thought we were lucky to sight and capture those memorable frames, one of the cub decided to give a go at the bear. The bear stood his ground momentarily, claws ready to inflict serious damage if attacked and that's when I captured this frame. After this, they went inside and continued their brawl. Just when this was happening, we had another sloth bear coming from the opposite side. It quickly went inside the bush and after a brief pass, the commotion started all over again!! As if this was not enough, Kuwani showed up as if she heard everything and wanted to ensure her cubs are safe. What followed was a 4KM head-on that went on for the remaining time of the safari. That's for another day though Kuwani cub vs sloth bear, Zari-Kolsa, Jun'22. credits to =AZXnMRSPxg-OiOaMhqEIo0T9bkUgWeaHZN12rga3pt0yhAL2saIgpM4MnhSqFicEjMGwZUe000RPBdsnAzssL-IL7VQeV5-cL8gDeiezwmiJUj_s7xK4CumR6ETLaPnPZjgBOcTeSNc6yWWuZCIlhimT&__tn__=-]C%2CP-R]Pradeep Srirengan Reply