Welcome to Maasai Mara National Reserve, an area of preserved savannah wilderness in southwestern Kenya that is famous worldwide for its exceptional populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. It’s not easy for any wild animal to survive in such places, but Morani has made it to 14 years so far.
The majestic creature has just taken the title of Maasai Mara’s oldest lion after his brother Scarface passed away several months ago.
According to Leighton Lum, a professional wildlife photographer from Hawaii, US, Morani’s journey is something we can’t help but admire.
“Just by looking at his face, you can tell this guy has been through a lot,” said the 33-year-old photographer. “He went from a young stud leader of a pride, a king, to a retired old man who still fights for survival in the Mara.”
The old lion used to hang out with three other males before, but now he’s just all alone.
“Morani was a part of a coalition of four males and he’s the only one remaining out of the four,” Lum continued. “He is a lone male who has been pushed out of the pride by younger, stronger males which is a natural process in lions as the strongest males will control the pride.”
However, Morani’s life is quite pleasant at this moment. He spends most of his time sleeping and lazily enjoying life.
“In general, adult male lions are lazy by nature and can sleep for 20 hours a day! We spotted him in the morning, then went back at the very end of the day only to find him no more than 15ft from where we left him. Even when he does get up and sit down, it is a rather slow process,” the photographer added.
Please share Morani’s story with your loved ones!
H/T: Daily Mail
Absolutely a beautiful post. I am & have been since I was a Child a lion & tiger lover. Great & priceless pictures thank you.