Following on from my last blog, where I touched on the leopards frequently seen along the Sand River, I thought it would be fitting to shift focus to the lions that also make use of this vital area. For a while, the lion dynamics here felt completely up in the air—especially with two dominant male coalitions jostling for space and the Kambula Pride fracturing. But recently, things seem to have calmed down and stabilised… for now. Then again, with lions, you never really know.

Male Coalitions

The Plains Camp Males

Let’s start west of camp, where the Plains Camp Males are still the dominant force. Their territory stretches well into the western sector of the Sabi Sand, even beyond our western boundary. These two males are a formidable duo, frequently seen along the Sand River and in the northern stretches of Londolozi, especially around Marthly.

One of the Plains Camp males at the causeway which is deep in the Ndzenga Males territory

They’re dominant over several prides in the west, but here on Londolozi, they’ve mated with both the Munghen Pride and the lone Tsalala Female. Of those two, only the Munghen Pride has had success raising cubs so far. Still, the Plains Camp Males remain active in this area, and their presence provides a degree of protection for any females hoping to raise cubs.

One of the Plains Camp Males crossing the Sand River.

The Ndzhenga Males

Further east, we come across the Ndzhenga Males—now down to two. These males control a vast territory that includes southern and eastern portions of Londolozi and extends into neighbouring reserves. They’re most often seen along the eastern reaches of the Sand River, particularly when on territorial patrol or spending time with the Ntsevu Pride.

One of the Ndhzenga Males crossing the sand river, at the same place the two plains camp males are crossing in the above image.

Over the past four years, the Ndzhenga Males have been highly successful, having sired cubs with both the Kambula and Ntsevu Prides. These males continue to patrol actively, ensuring their lineage has the best chance of survival.

Kambula Males

These now fairly impressive males, will occasionally be seen along the banks of the Sand River, but this is only temporary as they traverse the length of Londolozi in their missions. So the time will come when these males hopefully take over territory and become permanent features along the Sand River, however, we cannot say when that will be.

Prides Along the River

The Tsalala Female

I use the term “pride” loosely here, as she is currently alone. The Tsalala Female has made the banks of the Sand River, from the Londolozi camps westwards her domain. She’s already had her first litter of cubs—sired by the Plains Camp Males—but unfortunately lost them early on. Despite the setback, her persistence in staying near these dominant males gives her the best chance of protection should she have another litter.

It’s her resilience and determination that continues the legacy of the legendary Tsalala lineage. Here’s hoping she gets another chance to raise cubs to independence.

The Tsalala female lying up on the banks of the Sand River in the beautiful evening light.

The Ntsevu Pride

Further east along the river is where the Ntsevu Pride has settled, having broken away from the Kambula Pride when the Ndzhenga Males arrived on the scene. Since then, two of the three adult females have given birth again. Sadly, one of them lost all four of her cubs, but the other still has three thriving cubs now about one year and four months old.

These cubs, sired by the Ndzenga Males, are growing fast and their survival prospects look promising. If they make it through to independence, they could significantly strengthen the pride and ensure its continuation into the next generation.

Kambula Pride

This blog wouldn’t be complete without a mention of the Kambula Pride, who although do spend time along the Sand River, it is not within the portions of the Sand River that we have access to near our camps.

The Kambula Pride.

A River of Opportunity

The Sand River offers so much for lions. From abundant hunting opportunities to hidden places to safely den cubs, it’s a crucial artery through the reserve. It’s not uncommon to find lone buffalo bulls lingering in the reeds—dangerous prey, but a big reward if a pride manages to bring one down.

Since arriving at Londolozi in early 2022, this is the most stable I’ve seen the lion dynamics. But that’s the thing with lions—change can happen overnight. I’ll be sure to keep you updated on what unfolds along the river.