New kids on the block

In March this year we wrote about the two Mashatu lionesses that defy the textbooks and do things their own way. These lionesses surprised us all by abandoning their previous litter of six cubs when they were less than a year old. Soon thereafter they started mating with the resident male lion in their territory.

We’ve been waiting in anticipation for the arrival of the new cubs and the first lion has given birth to three adorable little ones. The second lioness is also pregnant and we anticipate her cubs will be born within the next month.

The lionesses have a favourite den site and guides know to look for these animals here. But suspicions were raised when one of the females wasn’t seen for a few days. That was until the unmistakable sound of a lion cub was heard calling from within the thick bushes and shrubs.

Finally, the first female had given birth to her three adorable little ones and it was just a matter of days before mom brought them out into the open.
We are happy to welcome these three cubs into the Mashatu world and await the arrival of their cousins, with equal eagerness. The second lioness should give birth within the next month.
As a side note, these lionesses do tolerate their previous six offspring in their area, but don’t let them near the den or the new babies. The first six are doing well together.