Predator War

With all the noise and commotion that a big carcass brings, it wasn’t long before every pride in the area became aware of the activities around Exeter. On the carcass was pride consisting of two lioness’ and there seven three-month-old cubs. On the trail of the carcass was a pride of two female and five sub-adults. We left the carcass apprehensive but excited to see what the morning would bring. The night was alive with activity as we heard lions fighting and roaring to try and proclaim the territory around the rhino. We got there the next morning to find the pride of two females and five sub-adults on the carcass. Nearly all of the lions had battle injuries ranging from scratches to chunks of fur missing. Unfortunately one of the three-month-old cubs from the original pride had been killed and they were found nearby, licking there wounds. Eventually a male lion arrived and chased off the older lions and this allowed the young cubs a second opportunity to feed at the much needed carcass. Although brutal and difficult to understand, the interaction was amazing to hear and watch.

Posted: &BEYOND Exeter Lodges by Brendan Streak, Date: 22 May 2008