Over the past few months, the Msuthlu Pride has been venturing further north into Londolozi than we have seen before. This movement is closely linked to the presence of the Gijima Males, fathers of the pride’s cubs and now their protectors. As these males continue to extend their influence, the pride follows, finding both security and opportunity in their presence. These shifts remind us how fluid lion dynamics can be and set the stage for an interesting encounter one morning not long ago.
The Gijima Males a couple weeks ago, making their presence known with a buffalo kill.
Not so long ago, we found the Msuthlu Pride and the Gijima Males resting in a clearing shortly after sunrise. A herd of buffalo was visible in the distance, moving slowly through the Tugwaan drainage line. For a while, the lions remained settled, but before long, they began to move with more intent, gradually closing the gap.
One of the pride’s females, looking towards the herd, planning her attack.
The first attempt at a hunt happened quickly. The pride made a move, scattering the herd and creating a cloud of dust as the buffalo reacted, bunching together and pushing back against the charge.
It was a brief but intense moment, with the buffalo’s defensive wall proving too strong. The lions were forced to pull away. What followed was a prolonged stand-off. Both sides kept a close eye on the other, the buffalo bulls holding their ground while the lions circled at a distance.
Eventually, the lions chose to settle in the shade along the Tugwaan drainage. Their patience would have to be tested further.
That evening, the pride was found again, not far from where they had settled in the morning. The buffalo had moved off, but the lions remained nearby, conserving energy. They seemed to be waiting for darkness, when their chances of success would be higher.
By the following morning, there was a real sense of anticipation. Almost exactly 24 hours after their first failed attempt, we returned to the area to find the lions again. This time, however, the scene was very different. The Msuthlu Pride and the Gijima Males were lying around the carcass of a buffalo, their persistence having been rewarded during the night.
Watching lions on a buffalo kill is always a reminder of the challenges they face. Hunts like these demand patience, courage, and cooperation, and even then, success is never guaranteed. For the pride, this was an important victory.
What made the sighting even more significant was its location. This was the furthest north we have seen the Msuthlu Pride, showing how closely they are tracking the Gijima Males’ movements. With the Ndzhenga Males still maintaining a presence not far away, the pressure between these coalitions could lead to some very interesting developments.
Lion dynamics at Londolozi are particularly exciting at the moment. The Msuthlu Pride, guided and supported by the Gijima Males, is beginning to test new boundaries. Their persistence secured them a much-needed meal, but more importantly, it highlights a period of change. As the lions push further north, they are shaping the next chapter of Londolozi’s ever-evolving lion story.
Hi Patrick, the Gijima males certainly want to take over the dynamics of Londolozi. Having the Msuthlu pride there as well makes it even more special. Ndhzenga Males are going to have a battle on their hands fighting off the Gijima males. Lion dynamics are always an exciting experience.
Thanks for the follow up on the shifting lion dynamics. Definitely exciting times ahead for all prides and coalitions. Your lion images before and after the hunt are great and does illustrate that patience and determination pay off.
good to see them having a good feed they sometimes have to wait for the right animal to cross their paths
I Patrick, it’s always such an emotional experience following lions moving through the bush, and ambush the poor buffalo that defend themselves fiercely. Hard for both species, likely the hardest fight between large predators and prey. So impressive, you can feel the tension in the lionesses posture and the buffalo ‘s. Great. Natural changes are required to preserve the genpool. None the less, I hope that the Ndzenga males keep up for their pride with cubs.. one of the two Gjima male limps. They may be young, handsome and fit but maybe that’s not a good point if they mean to defeat the Ndzenga, maybe lionesses can do the definitive move.
How big is this pride, Patrick? Lions and buffalo always means some excitement, dangerous for both sides. The strategies the lions use are fascinating.
Patrick, Exciting times again with Lion dynamics! We look forward to hearing more!
Thanks for the update, Patrick. What’s the make-up of the Msuthlu pride?