Nharhu Male Lions

[Potato]

Xitaya, a member of the Nharhu coalition has succumbed to injuries sustained in an altercation with the Skorro males. As much as one tries to detach themselves from any emotional ties to an animal/s the loss one feels when confronted with the reality of losing a familiar soul is still a heavy hearted experience. Years of incredible memories rush back into ones mind immediately, most of those were spent in breathless awe at the sheer magnificence. An overwhelming sense of sadness follows as you realise the impermanence and fragility of life in the wild. But then, you also realise that this is the way of nature, as cruel as it may sometimes seem, it will always know the right process to undergo in order for balance to be maintained. The Skorro males, dominant over the Western Pride, now have an opportunity to acquire another pride for themselves. Should this be their intention, we are sure they will do so - the only obstacle standing in the way is the last remaining Nharhu male and he himself is handicapped with an old injury. Interesting times lay ahead for the River Pride as well as the Western Pride. For now we will reminisce on past memories of Xitaya with a deep sense of gratitude.

A few months back this photo was sent to Marion Geiger, artist/owner of Motswari, to remind her of the amazing sighting we enjoyed of Xitaya and his fellow pride members. Being the incredible artist that she is, Marion then decided that she would love to paint this lion in all his glory. She sat quietly in her studio, here at the lodge, and began to study the magnificence of the lion. Several brushstrokes later she had immortalised Xitaya, who now stands proudly on the Veranda of the lodge overlooking the beautiful African bush.

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

Reply