In the early hours of the morning, while trying to coax our 18-month-old Olivia back to sleep—ah, the joys of the 18-month sleep regression—I heard the commanding roars of lions echoing close to camp. Naturally, this changed our morning game drive plans, as we set out to track down the source of those powerful calls.
It wasn’t long before we spotted the two Ndzhenga Males, their noses glued to the ground, tracing the scent of the Kambula Pride, which had passed through the area earlier. With their bellies looking noticeably empty, it was clear these males were on a mission, likely hoping that the females had made a successful kill, and that they could benefit a free meal from.
What followed was a spectacular sight: two male lions, bathed in the golden light of dawn, marching purposefully over the crests in the southeastern part of the reserve. Eventually, they paused in an open clearing, taking a moment to regather.
In this virtual safari, we also give a little update on the Ntsevu Cubs and include a throwback to a memorable sighting of the cubs stalking a few guineafowls a while ago.
Enjoy this Virtual Safari…
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Great visit this week. particularly with the incredible lion presence. We saw the Ntsevu Cubs at the river, playing together. We also crossed into Singita to see the Tsalala lioness and her very entertaining cubs. She remains magnificent, and her story of solitary success over years is still remarkable.
Thanks for that, Sean. I guess you’re all trying to keep an eye out for the Plains Camp males – have the Ndzhenga males been sticking together more recently?
The beautiful healthy looking lion cubs. I love their dappled fur.
Great video in the golden light, all a splendour and seeing a whole family of lions with males on patrol and cubs is a privilege. Thank you Sean i think you are envied by many!
It’s always exciting to watch lions, especially when the males are on the move. Listening to your narrative as you followed the Ndhzengas early morning, I chuckled because their ultimate goal was a n finding the Kambulas, in the hopes of scoring a meal. Therein the perception that males don’t like to hunt but rather prefer the females to spend the effort to take down prey. I might add that they’ve certainly done their job towards increasing their pride numbers. They’re a wide assortment of ages that I would think would be good for the longevity of both prides. Seeing the little ones playing and stalking whatever moves is always entertaining. I do find it interesting that the Ndhzengas seem to be satisfied with taking care of their two prides whilst the PCM are seeking to widen their already substantial territory. I agree that exciting yet precarious times are ahead.
Nice lion video Sean. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Sean, the Ndhzenga Males are two stunning males, those roars vibrate right through you. Ah those three little cubs are to gorgeous. Love the Kambula pride with all their cubs. What you and your fellow Rangers photograph is so beautiful and your Video’s on a Sunday is a bonus for me. All the cubs being it leopards or lions are my favorites. Can you please tell me how the Tsalala female is doing with her three cubs.
Sean, You videos are just amazing and we loved the way you were able to weave in some video of the cubs too!
Great video,Sean, of these adorable cubs and their pride.