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.
An update: How is the kind doing? We caught up with @sarahssafaris , our Guide at Thornybush Game Lodge who gave us an update on the great Mapoza. “Mapoza is doing well. He is loosing muscle mass as he ages however he is still the dominant male of the majority of the north of the reserve.
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It is clear though that he is feeling the pressure from younger competitors on the boundaries of his territory. He is aware that he is getting weaker with age. Previously, if he caught wind of any males infringing on his territory he used to seek them out and chase them away, now he runs a mile as soon as there’s any chance of conflict. The pride seems to be retaining their young males to help them appear stronger and to help Mapoza keep his throne for as long as possible.
Normally sexually mature males are kicked out of the pride as soon as sexual maturity hits however several young males are being allowed to stay. This is very interesting and works for a short while but I have seen this happen before and it doesn’t go well for long. The younger males hormones start to cause way to many problems in the pride and they normally get kicked out soon after. There is an elder young male in the pride who has bonded quite nicely with Mapoza, perhaps he will stay if the others are kicked out.