Lions of Timbavati

[Tshokwane]

Credits to NThambo Tree Camp.

The older Mapoza male has gained confidence since the pair first arrived in the area a few months ago and he is certainly acting like a newly crowned king!

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On Tuesday's evening game drive the Ross Breakaways were spotted stalking a herd of buffalo after their kill from the previous day had been devoured by the Mapozas! Yesterday morning we showed up and saw this incredible sight. A bigger meal and enough to fill the two lionesses and male lions.

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The younger of the two lionesses was seen at the carcass, tucking in in true carnivore fashion. This female seems to behave very warily around the Mapoza boys and prefers to keep her distance. When we found her, she was alone at the carcass, and then we found the other lioness and Mapozas a short distance away.

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This is the younger Mapoza male, and now that we are getting a better look at him, we've noticed that he is likely blind in his right eye. This lion used to take cover as soon as we arrived on the scene, but lately we have seen him gain confidence. At night, only his left eye reflects if it catches the light, and in daylight we can see the right eye looks damaged.

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The one lioness we saw feeding also seemed to have an unusual appearance. As Kevin filmed and photographed her, we noticed he left side of her jaw/mouth was slightly out of place. Maybe she only had something stuck in her teeth, or maybe she injured herself - we can only speculate.

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The well fed and content looking Mapoza male. He is one heavy duty male lion and a real looker at that! 

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Resting in the shade after a good helping of fresh buffalo!

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