Lions are the largest predators in Africa. But, as this footage shows, to become an efficient killer, you need to start young.
Ebenezer Rhode submitted this footage to Latest Sightings. He filmed it in South Africa’s Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Watch the video here:
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Catnapping
Joining the action in Ebenezer’s video, we see a big male lion doing what lions seem to do best: sleeping. Looking far from regal, the deadly predator lies with his legs akimbo.
In his deep state of slumber, he is unaware that a future killer has him in its sights. Since he is fast asleep, we wonder whether his senses will detect the threat before it’s too late.
Is ignorance bliss?
Subsequently, we get our first glimpse of the approaching menace. A paw, armed with five deadly claws, is carefully placed in the undergrowth.
Any misplaced step will alert the lion, so the stalking animal must exercise the utmost patience. Meanwhile, the steady rise and fall of the male’s chest tells us he remains completely unaware.
Threat identified
As the supposed king of the jungle continues to sleep, the identity of the approaching challenger is revealed. It’s just a lion cub, playing what could be a very risky game.
With male lions, it’s always a gamble when guessing how they will respond to surprises. However, the cub is undeterred and continues its careful stalk.
No shortcuts to greatness
A key attribute for any successful predator is patience. Move too fast or put a foot wrong, and a lot of effort will go to waste.
So it’s good to see that, when a branch blocks its path, the cub diverts around it. Showing such foresight at such a young age bodes well for its future as a hunter.
It is also encouraging to see the cub is approaching its target from behind. In a real hunting situation, this would give it a better chance of stalking up close undetected.
In position
A few moments later, the cub is in position. Just inches away from its father, the cub pauses as if realising the situation it’s got itself into.
Considering that a single swipe of the male’s paw would cause serious injury or death, the cub has a big decision to make. Attack or slink away, leaving Dad none the wiser.
Moment of truth
Bravely, the cub chooses the former and goes for the male’s exposed rump…
As it does, the male wakes with a jolt, turning to deal with the unexpected “attack”. However, as he turns, he spots his mischievous offspring and leaves it at that.
Still half asleep, his expression says it all…
Like, what does a king have to do to sleep in peace around here?
Subsequently, the cub emerges from behind his Dad, his expression a mix of mischief and awe. It desperately wants to interact, but will the big male allow it?
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A roll over and a push over
When the male rolls over, the cub sees it as a sign of acceptance. The male recognises its offspring, and, for now, is willing to play nice.
Consequently, the cub is emboldened. These moments to bond with its father may be few and far between, so the little one is eager to make the most of it.
King of the castle
However, what it does next takes everyone by surprise. Seeing his father as nothing more than a playmate, he jumps up on his massive body.
Then, having proved itself “king of the castle”, the triumphant cub lay down for a well-earned rest. Just goes to show, it’s not what you know, but who.
