Lions of Ruaha

On safari in Africa, most people hope to see Lion and most of the time they are rewarded. This is because Lions are lazy, spending much of their time resting/sleeping. Therefore the prides can be located without too much trouble. This is unlike some of the other cats where you have to spend time looking for them. The Lions of Ruaha, Tanzania were no exception because they were very visible.

However, seeing them hunt is another matter and few visitors ever witness the chase and kill. Finding Lions in Ruaha National Park, which has Africa’s largest lion population,  was never going to be a problem.  Coming across a hunt beside the track resulting in a kill was a real bonus. Plus being the only four people there was the icing on the cake.

Although we have seen many hunts on TV, being there was a very unique experience. It was fascinating viewing watching how the pride’s hierarchy works.

The Kill

Initially the females plus a huge male stalked and brought down the Zebra very close to the track. While the hunt was in progress the youngest cubs had been hidden at a safe distance from the action. Once the Zebra was down all the males moved in. Ferociously guarding the kill whilst allowing some of the larger cubs to feed along side them. Having gorged themselves the males moved away. Finally the females were then allowed to start feeding. All of this went on without any visible communication between the pride.

A unique and memorable experience

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