Coalitions of Kruger National Park

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Singita KNP update

The Shish Pride has been seen on a regular basis in the granophyre ridges. The five young cubs are from two different litters, the split being three and two. The cubs were seen getting their first taste of meat in the early days of April as their mothers managed to take down an impala. A few days later they were seen feeding on a kudu at the bush dinner site, appropriately. We have deduced that another female has given birth but we have yet to confirm where the den-site is, although most likely in a concealed cave or rocky outcrop in the granophyre ridge. Two of the younger females have kept the Trichardt coalition busy as they have been in oestrus simultaneously leaving the males competing for mating rights and lengthy mating sessions. At the end of the month, we heard at least one cub and so can finally confirm that another Shish female has introduced her cubs to the rest of the pride. This brings the total number of confirmed mothers to four.


The Trichardt male coalition has laid claim to the southern and central region following the death of Xihamham. They have been seen consistently with the Shish Pride and patrolling the Lebombo Mountains. Their territorial calls can be heard most early mornings echoing down the N’wanetsi River.

Following the demise of his brother, the lone Shish male has rarely been seen. Sighted on only a few occasions with the larger portion of the Mananga Pride as they venture further north. Should he be able to maintain his association with the pride, there should be no cause for concern. However, being a lone male lion in this area, having one of the highest densities of lions in the park, it is uncommon to have the opportunity to lay claim to a whole pride by himself. Rival coalitions will be impending on his shrinking territory as he will be unable to patrol and seek the advantages of the security and hunting escapades of the Mananga Pride.

The Maputo male has been spotted stalking a herd of large buffalo in the northern region. The Maputo male is an experienced hunter and known for his stealthy approach to prey. He has been seen trailing the buffalo herd for several days now, studying their movements and waiting for the opportune moment to strike. The Maputo male is a dominant force in the area, known for his impressive size and strength. The buffalo are aware of his presence and are on high alert, staying close together for protection. It remains to be seen whether he will be successful in his hunt or if the buffalo will manage to evade him.

The Mananga Pride had always called the savannahs of the central depression their home and the heart of their territory, but when their dominant male lion, Xihamham was killed by the rival Trichardt coalition, everything changed. The loss of the dominant male has left the pride vulnerable and exposed, and with the sub-adults to protect, the pride has acted fast. The adult lionesses have moved further north, away from their old territory and into new and unknown territory that may be infringed upon by neighbouring prides. Reply