We observed three large male lions chasing a young male while drinking coffee, and as they continued their pursuit through an elephant herd, we could see that the situation was becoming more heated. The lions broke through a gap and split off into their own distinct paths, startling the elephants who in response began after them.

“After being silent for about five minutes, a large battle broke out between the two male lions just across from us, on the other side of the dam. The three adult males continued to attack the young guy, who was already hurt and exhausted, with bites and claws for over three hours in total.

Every time the three male lions returned, the elephants and hippos made an effort to drive them away, almost as if they were trying to save the young boy from a tragic fate. The older men came back one last time, finished the task, and then permanently left, which was unfortunate for the young men.

The young male lion suffered severe injuries, including a shattered back, and eventually passed away from his wounds. The vultures later arrived, and he became their dinner.

“Seeing the lion’s power and realizing how fearless they are made us all feel happy and sad at the same time. It’s not always clear how wild it can get out in the bushveld until something like this occurs, so this was a first for me.