ROARING AT DAWN

We woke to the sound of lions roaring all around the camp this morning. The Selati males that have just taken over the western sector from the once mighty Mapogo coalition were here. What a way to start the day?!

We set off in what was probably the coldest morning so far this winter and I forgot my gloves! It wasn't long before we were surrounded by lion activity; one male on his own and two of the other males were seperate; each with a female from the the Ottowa pride. We watched as one of the females was giving a male a very hard time, presenting herself for mating and then running off playfully.

This was all before the sun had even risen. Then we heard the single male start to roar softly so we drove to see where he was. We found him walking and sniffing around for a few minutes only to lie down in the suns' new rays... Then he started! With vehicle foot-plates vibrating and my guests' cheeks quivering, we watched in total amazement! He roared fully twice not even 3 metres from our vehicle, it was incredible! Waking up at 5.30 on a winter's morning does not get more rewarding than this!

Posted: Exeter Lodges by Justin Hall, Date: 23 May 2012