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.
I got this wonderful information about Matimba's origin and history.
The 6 Matimba's were born in 2006/2007 and they all came from Ngala Game Reserve. 5 of the Matimba males came from the Birmingham/Caroline pride and the 6th Matimba came from a single lioness called the Lamula lioness. The 5 Matimba's accepted the 6th Matimba as a coalition member and in 2010 all 6 males moved into the Manyeleti. Legend has it that the Lamula female was killed by a honey badger, true or not it makes for a great story!! The 3 old Skybed males took over Ngala in 2006 so they are most likely the fathers of the 6 Matimba males. The 6th Matimba hasn't been seen since December 2012. We can only guess that he was killed by rival lions or......
The 5 remaining Matimba males dominate two different areas. The 3 Northern Matimba's dominate Ngala Game Reserve and they have a territory near Orpen Camp in KNP. The two Southern Matimba's are currently in central Sabi Sands after they were ousted by the 5 Birmingham male lions. 4 of the 6 Matimba males drinking at a waterhole in Nkorho.
Photo taken by Janine Gomes at Nkorho in July 2011.