There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
Its just coincidence probably. If there was a selective instinct like that she would have killed or abandoned the cub herself.
The only real factor that could explain such a difference is that a male cub is slightly stronger and bigger and thus more difficult to pick up and carry to safety.
Offcource despite all the big talk about them being the kings of the jungle. Lions are just small and fragile creatures compared to some of the bigger animals. Once those elephants decided to kill the cub, there would have been no other option for Ximhungwe than to run away and watch from a big distance. Regardless off gender.