Clutching her small cub firmly by the nape of the neck, a fearless lioness confidently navigates a perilous river crossing. In the face of adversity, this brave mother guides her nine-week-old cub through the turbulent waters, deftly leaping from one improvised stepping stone to the next.
In these captivating images, we witness the exhilarating instance when the lioness crosses the river to reunite with her pride on the opposite bank. Clinging to her cherished cub, she maintains a secure grip, ensuring their safe journey back to their family. It’s a heartwarming scene that will truly awe you!
Despite the swift currents of the Ntiakitiak River in Kenya’s Masai Mara game reserve, a courageous lion cub emerged unharmed, albeit a little damp, thanks to its mother’s adept navigation through the treacherous waters. Greek photographer Kyriakos Kaziras had the privilege of capturing this incredible moment during a December expedition while staying at Paul Goldstein’s Kicheche Bush Camp.
Paul described how Kaziras and his guide were observing the Enkoyanai pride in the morning following a heavy rainfall. The downpour had transformed the typically modest Ntiakitiak River into a tumultuous and forceful stream.
“Due to abundant rainfall, the Ntiakitiak River, typically a mere trickle, had swelled into a raging torrent,” Paul explained. “The mother faced a critical decision, carrying her nine-week-old cub to rejoin the pride. The journey was fraught with danger and numerous risks.”