Lions of Sabi Sands

[vinodkumarn]

Credits: Savannah Lodge

As the young always attract so much attention and generate so much enjoyment, it is great still to have the three Ottawa cubs doing very well. They have relaxed completely around the vehicles, and we are privileged to witness incredible interactions between the various individuals within the pride. Initially, the mother was wary with the approach of the sub-adult male and would aggressively defend the young cubs.

 

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However, it didn’t take long for the mother to trust the male and, more importantly, for the male to accept the youngsters. They now seem to seek him out and attempt to play with him all the time, almost like a big brother who will protect them if need be.

 

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And then, as expected, there are the many tender moments between the cubs and the mother. She looks after them well and they are in great condition.

 

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

The Mhangene youngsters continue to be an incredible story. They are gaining in confidence, and are starting to believe in their own abilities. They still move large distances, but have made two buffalo kills this month on our concession. On one occasion, the buffalo was very weak, and it surprised us all how quickly they were able to bring it down.

 

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

They managed to get a good meal from this kill, but sadly they lost it to a large clan of hyena the next morning, who chased them up a fallen tree nearby.

 

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

The following buffalo kill was only three days later, but this time they managed to hold on to the kill a little longer. It was only during the following day that enough hyena had gathered to outnumber the lions, and once again chase them up a tall tree nearby. For a video of this interaction, have a look at this clip.

 

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

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