Kids of yesteryear used to amuse themselves with games like King of the Castle, where whoever held the highest point was the winner. So it’s heart-warmingly relatable to see lion cubs doing the same.
Kapama Game Reserve submitted this footage, which staff members filmed. Kapama sits in the Greater Kruger in northeastern South Africa.
Watching from above
As the video begins, we see a lion cub sitting in a tree. Below it, its siblings are wrestling on the ground.
Lions are the only social big cat, typically giving birth to litters of up to four cubs. Once introduced to the pride, the cubs are cooperatively raised.
King of the Castle unlocked
Suddenly, one of the cubs on the ground launches itself at the one in the tree. It is as if the cub does not want to be looked down upon.
In a similar fashion to the children’s game, King of the Castle, the “ruler” is swiftly unseated.
As the other cubs look on, they realise they’ve just discovered a new game.
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A novel way to the top
Subsequently, another cub tries to claim the throne for itself. However, it is immediately set upon by a sibling who bites at its hind legs.
While these actions are playful, they are vital to a young lion’s development. While strengthening bonds, they also learn useful survival skills and improve their coordination.
Then, while the cub is trying to unseat the one above, it is attacked from below. It seems that if you want to get to the top, you have to watch your back too.
When the upper cubs fall to the ground, the one at the back takes its opportunity to claim the throne.
New challenger blocked
However, as it does, another cub moves in to challenge its reign. But it can’t easily dislodge its sibling.
Pausing below, the cub ponders its options. Then it has a bright idea.
If you can’t beat them…
Thinking outside the box, the cub pushes its way up the tree and settles alongside its sibling. Maybe they can share the crown.
However, it soon becomes apparent that there is only space for one on the throne. Accordingly, one of the cubs abandons its position.
At this rate, we wonder if there will ever be peace in the kingdom.
As a new challenger moves into position, it is clear the answer is “NO!”
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Two-pronged takeover
In no time, a new challenger leaps up, trying to unseat the king. Behind it, two more wait in line.
As they watch, one of them sees the top cubs’ tail dangling provocatively. Sensing an opportunity, it grabs the tail in its mouth.
However, the king is smart and simply stands up. As it does so, the challengers give up and run off in search of a new game.
Lonely at the top
Strangely, with no one to challenge for the throne, the king soon realises they’re missing out on all the fun.
Consequently, they abandon the throne, eager to join the fun below.
And who can blame them? After all, it gets lonely at the top.