Watch the adorable sighting here:
Steyn Jacobsohn submitted their footage of the adorable excursion to Latest Sightings. It was filmed on a game drive in the Kruger National Park.
Family on the move
As the video begins, we see first one, and then two more, tiny lion cubs emerging from the vegetation. The cubs look to be only a few weeks old.
For reasons unknown, the cub’s mother has decided to move them. As soon becomes apparent, this is no simple task.
Back and forth
As the first cubs emerge onto the road, it becomes apparent that they are not quite sure of the assignment.
To begin with, one trots across the road with apparent confidence. However, moments later, it seems to question its decision and turns back.
By now, its sibling has also come onto the road, leading to some indecision. Eventually, they resolve to head back where they came from.
Subsequently, they again have a re-think and are seen crossing the road once again. But why the indecision?
Here comes momma
Soon enough, the reason becomes clear. Like all good kids should, they are waiting for their mom. And she, in turn, seems to be having trouble getting their siblings to cooperate.
Tenderly, she shepherds her timid offspring forward. Well, at least until her patience wanes.
Multi-purpose mouth
Considering the strength in her jaws, she is incredibly gentle as she picks up the reluctant cub. Such behaviour is common in cats and causes no harm to the baby.
Soon enough, she reaches the road and crosses in front of the fortunate Steyn.
Ma, I forgot something
No sooner do we think she has successfully got her litter across the road than one of the cubs reappears. Much like a determined toddler, it seems to have something very important on its mind. But what?
On the plus side, we get to see once again, just how cute the cubs are.
Patient momma
Having realised one of her litter have strayed, the attentive mom returns and once again, gently picks up the cub.
Finally, this part of her mission is complete, and she disappears into the brush — hopefully with her family safely in tow.
Lion families
Lions are the only sociable big cats and live in inter-related groups called prides. These may vary from 2 to 50 individuals of varying ages.
Strictly speaking, prides consist of adult females and their juvenile offspring of both sexes. Males tend to live fairly separate lives, playing no parental role beyond securing the territory.
Males may service several prides, encountering each in the course of their regular patrols. Should there be food or mating opportunities, they will stay with the pride until the opportunity has passed.
Cubs are born after a 100-day gestation. They remain hidden for several weeks and are dependent on their mother.
By eight weeks, they will be introduced to the pride. Females may remain with their natal pride for their entire life, while males are forced to leave upon reaching sexual maturity.