Watch The Sighting Here:
This video was captured from the banks of the fast-flowing Mlambane River, along the S114 near Berg-en-Dal in the Kruger National Park.
Reluctant Leader
Three male lions, busy patrolling their territory, were forced to cross the swiftly flowing river.
However, it had to be done. The first lion set off across the submerged causeway at a brisk pace.
As he progressed, the current was quite strong, judging by the way his paws veered to the side.
Not So Keen
Meanwhile, on the far bank, his companion hesitated to get his feet wet. At that point, a third lion came into view.
As the first lion reached the near bank, it was time for his buddies to begin their crossing.
Tentative Steps
Then, as the first male looked back to check on their progress, the first of his companions took tentative steps into the water.
Once again, as the second male reached the deepest point, he too struggled to walk in a straight line.
Too Slow
By now, the third male entered the water and broke into a trot, clearly eager to finish the crossing quickly. As he caught up to the second male, he had to veer around him to pass.
He unwittingly brought himself perilously close to the submerged edge of the crossing. In the meantime, the first male appeared ready to move on.
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Slippery Underfoot
Eager to get the crossing over with, the lion put haste before caution. In the process, he lost his footing, possibly on some algae accumulated on the causeway.
Thankfully, he managed to recover his footing before slipping entirely into the water.
Barely breaking his stride, he continued trotting to catch up with his compatriot. Throughout, the second lion maintained a regally sedate pace, crossing without incident.
With the trio safely across the water, they paused for a quick drink before resuming their patrol.
League Of Lions
The three lions featured in the video are a coalition of males, probably brothers or cousins from the same pride.
When male lions approach sexual maturity at around two years old, their relatively peaceful life undergoes a violent transition. The pride’s dominant males start to view them as reproductive competitors. As a result, they are forcefully evicted from the pride.
When this happens, young males of a similar age, used to living socially, will often band together. As young bachelors, these groups afford them mutual protection and better hunting opportunities.
While one of the males may assume dominance, they forge strong bonds that may last for their entire lifespan. After a few years, the lions are ready to challenge resident males for territory, normally at 4-5 years of age.
The larger the coalition, the higher the likelihood of taking over and defending a territory. Several prides of females may reside within a territory, and the males split their time between groups.
Females within these territories fare better than those held by single males, as do their offspring, who are more likely to survive to adulthood.