Trouble on the Way

I had no sooner clicked ‘submit’ for the previous sighting about lion numbers increasing, when the whole dynamic changed yet again. For the first time since their arrival, the coalition of 6 males moved to the southern portion of our property, currently occupied by the Shemungwe pride. We think they were drawn there by the increase in Wildebeest numbers. Although there were no signs of a struggle, the Shemungwe pride are (again) no where to be found. The males were found on an Adult Wildebeest kill. We are unsure if they had made the kill or if it was stolen from the Shemungwe pride. It will be interesting to watch and see if the scent of new females draws the coalition south. As this area has no dominant male lion at the moment, it is a prime opportunity for the males to extend their territory. This may not bode well for the Shemungwe pride whose two sub-adult males will be the focus for the coalition with a potential take over. Previous altercations has not only seen these male kill their competition BUT, eat them as well.

Posted: Exeter Lodges by Brendan Streak, Date: 1 June 2007