After 13 years of guiding clients within the South African Nature, History and Culture Tourism industry; I have had plenty of time to see the real story of Lions hunting Buffalo.

The footage I wish to share with you shows the parts of Lions hunting Buffalo that the documentaries on TV won't often show you. This footage has been take over the past 5 years on our Hluhluwe Imfolozi Safari Tours from Durban.

Documentaries sensationalize the African Safari experience by showing only the last parts to hunts which are amazing however they don't often show the truth, risks, length and time it takes for Lions to make a successful kill.

Lions have to feed on average once a week. Once this time is extended beyond a week these majestic Cats begin to look condition. Basically their body will begin to digest fat supplies which is almost non existent on such a lean hunting machine. This in turn means that the cats muscle will then be digested and condition deteriorates incredibly fast! So fast that if they are unable to feed for as long as two weeks there usually is no way back and they die.

One needs to keep in mind that a Lion that is not contributing to the sustainability of the Pride due to being weak,  will be left behind. It is a harsh reality but it is the truth! A sick, slow Lion can only be carried so long before the Pride decides they have to move and leave the weak one behind in order for them to succeed.

What is not shown on these documentaries is the daily challenges Lions face in hunting their own food.