Every now and then, the bush throws you a curveball. You set out with one plan in mind, and by the end of the morning, you’re sitting in a bird hide talking about lions that just turned it into their personal lounge.
This week’s Virtual Safari started out with one mission: find the Gijima Males. But, as so often happens, the bush had other plans. Instead of finding this dominant duo, we stumbled upon the entire Msuthlu Pride and all fourteen lions were on a mission of their own.
They marched down the road, past a few old buffalo bulls (who should count their blessings), and straight toward Makhotini Dam. Being fairly easy to predict where they would go, I looped ahead, set down my Insta360 camera, and held my breath. To my relief, and the camera’s, the lions walked past without turning it into a chew toy.
After a half-hearted stalk on a wildebeest went south, the pride decided a drink and a bit of playtime at the waterhole were better ideas. That’s when things took an unexpected turn.
Because instead of resting in the shade like normal lions, a few decided to explore something far more… civilised: the bird hide.
Curiosity got the better of them, and one by one they began climbing in and out of it, until a handful realised it was cooler inside and made themselves at home.
Let’s just say it’s cool, breezy, got a lovely view, and apparently, the lion seal of approval.
And because nothing ever goes completely according to plan, when I went down to shoot the narrative… I got a flat tyre. So, as you’ll see, we wrap up this episode with a few behind-the-scenes moments that prove even the best-laid safaris have their surprises.
Enjoy this week’s Virtual Safari…
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Well that would have been a shock to anyone already inside the bird hide! Let’s hope they don’t get a taste for cool shady buildings….I can just imagine them taking over 1 of the camps, perhaps lying out on the sunbeds by the pool?
So there are 14 lions in the Msuthlu pride (same as the Kambula pride last year). How many are adults, sub-adults and cubs? I’m looking forward to seeing them in a week’s time, though preferably not in Founders!
There are 4 adults and 4 young male and 6 young females. I am sure you will see them when you are here.
What a sight! If only they’d hopped on the roof or used it to ambush a meal. You were smart to be cautious about going inside alone after that.
You can never be too cautious out here.
Sean, We love this post and all the fun you had with the camera and the lions. We know that Hide, but have never gone inside! Next rime, we will for sure!
I am glad you enjoyed it. You should definitely go visit the hide, but make sure there is nothing inside beforehand.
Epic, epic, epic! What strong pride and what shots you got! Sean, the pride is consisted for the four adult lionesses, but what is the sex ratio of the sub-adults and cubs? Thanks so much for sharing your magical home with us every week
It has been great that we are seeing the Msuthlu Pride so much of late. There is the 4 adults and I believe 4 young males and 6 young females.
Hi Sean, this is quite scarry to see the lions in a bird hide. That is something I would not like to encounter at any stage. I have seen on social media a leopard in a bird hide as well, not on Londolozi. Sorry you got a flat Tyre, that alone is critical in a game reserve. Thanks Sean for the video, an eye opener and I am pleased to see you were not attacked by the lions.
It is vital to always check the hide for anything before just walking in. Thankfully, the lions had moved on when I went there to film.
Wow, another flat tire, although with all the driving(bush-whacking) done throughout the property, it’s actually amazing there aren’t more tire issues…. or perhaps they’re not newsworthy. It was spectacular to see all fourteen of the Msuthlu pride. When I saw them last in 2024, there were approximately 10 as the newest cubs were not with the pride. Now the cubs that I viewed are almost subadults, and the younger ones are still quite playful. It was great that you placed the Insta 360 on the stick near the road as it gives a completely different perspective on their movements. I hadn’t realized how long the lions tend to walk with their eyes almost closed, opening them briefly to confirm their path. It appears the brightness of the sun bothers them as much as it does humans. Thanks for another relaxing Sunday video…..
Yes, with the amount of bundu-basking we do there are surprisingly few issues or flat tyres.
I think the sun was rther bright on that morning and so I am sure it is just more comfortable to not be staring into the glare. And I think being able to walk on all fours makes the threat or risk of tripping that much less and so they can afford to walk with their eyes closed.
What a fun to share this hide with a pride of lions. Very cool, in every regard. If I were a lion I would like that place, too.
It’s also a small miracle that your little camera survived the passing of 14 lions.
Great video!
I think it is a great spot to rest. I was relieved that none of the lions took an interest in my camera.
Wow! What a funny video! Certainly lions don’t lack inventory! They were such a tream! In their paws I would pad and use this strategically position more often than not. They are clever, surely realised how exciting is to watch potential prey passing by to drink or else… bravo Sean!
Thanks so much, Francesca.