H3_W6_002

Date: 2016

Location: Masai Mara, Kenya

Did you know?

Lion social behaviour is incredibly complex, adapted to suit both their physiology and surroundings. They are the most social of all the cats, taking advantage of group living to maximise their quality of life. Cubs wrestle with each other frequently from 2-6 months old and transition to more chasing and stalking between 6 and 12 months old. This helps them practice hunting skills and develop motor patterns that are crucial for hunting. They also learn to hunt by watching the adults.

About the picture

This photo of two sub-adult lions playing was taken in 2016 at Masai Mara. The cubs would run around chasing and stalking each other and then jump on one another. The adult lionesses were sitting close by keeping an eye on their naughty cubs. It was a beautiful experience watching the pride’s social dynamics at play.

Fun Fact

Female lions never lose their playfulness, but males older than 3 years rarely join in.