Lions are exceptional predators, capable of bringing down the largest prey of any predator. As this footage shows, however, learning experiences litter the path to becoming an apex predator.
Field Guide Jaco Joubert of MalaMala shared this cute footage with Latest Sightings. He filmed the wholesome interaction while on a game drive at South Africa’s MalaMala Game Reserve.
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Lion cubs focus on vulture
As we join Jaco at the sighting, we encounter a group of lion cubs that appear to be just a couple of months old. Their attention focuses on a lone hooded vulture sitting in the dry riverbed.
Lions are the world’s only social cat species and live in prides of up to 50 individuals. Prides are led by adult females and fall under the protection of resident territorial males.
Harassed hooded vulture
Subsequently, we see the vulture grow anxious as the cubs get closer. Even though they’re young, the lions could do it serious damage, even killing it, if caught.
Hooded vultures are one of 6 resident vulture species in South Africa and sit at the bottom of the species’ feeding hierarchy. Flying at low altitudes, they are often the first to arrive at carcasses, using their slender beaks to feed at various orifices.
Instinctive drive
When the cubs begin trotting towards it, the vulture sensibly takes off. Although the cubs have made a clumsy approach, it shows that the drive to hunt, or at least explore, other creatures is instinctive.
As the vulture takes off, the cubs look almost confused. What is this thing that can suddenly lift itself from the ground… and why can’t I?
Not easily deterred
Surprisingly, the vulture doesn’t go far, instead landing on the sand nearby. This suggests that a carcass lies nearby, and the pesky paw patrol will not deter it.
Unsurprisingly, on the other hand, its stubbornness is seen as another opportunity for the cubs to practice their hunting skills.
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If at first you don’t succeed
Lions are excellent at adapting their hunting strategies. This is reflected when fewer cubs approach on the second attempt.
However, while their strategy differed, the results did not. With the cubs plainly visible to the vulture, it takes off long before they get within striking distance. Of the many skills the cubs still need to learn, the stealthy use of cover is all important.
Consequently, we see the cubs looking confused as their would-be prey flutters off only to resettle a short distance away. It is almost as if the vulture is enjoying the game.
Now you’ve upset my Mom!
However, no sooner does it touch down than things take an interesting turn. Both adult lionesses are now also keenly watching the vulture.
This time around, the vulture is much quicker to react. While it’s had its fun with the cubs, it seems to know better than to take any chances with a full-grown lion.
As it departs, the cubs look around in confusion. Did Mom really just mess up their hunt once and for all?
