The tale of the Talamati and Msuthu Prides at Lion Sands

Territorial disputes, coalitions, and new cubs - the dynamics of lion prides are a constant source of fascination for our guests and our field guides. This is the tale of how the Msuthu pride came to be, as told by Field Guide Gino Spano.

In April of 2023, we witnessed an event that marked the beginning of a new chapter in Lion Sands' ever-changing story. Excitement filled our guests and guides alike when the two Gijima males were discovered with an unfamiliar lioness. The intrigue deepened when this mysterious lioness was observed mating with one of the Gijima males. Subsequently, it was revealed that she belonged to a group of four lionesses from the Talamati Pride.

History of the Talamati Pride

In 2007, a faction of lions separated from the Nkuhuma Pride and migrated northwards. These Nkuhuma Breakaways found refuge in the vicinity of the Talamati Bushveld Camp within Kruger National Park. By 2011, they had adopted the name Talamati Pride, derived from the camp's moniker, and later resettled in the Sabi Sand region.

Their saga unfolded amidst numerous trials and tribulations as they navigated the intricate dynamics of lion pride interactions in the Sabi Sand. Encounters with different male lion coalitions ensued, culminating in 2018 when the pride comprised five females. In early 2019, the Northern Avoca male lions established dominance in the northern Sabi Sand before extending their rule over the Talamati Pride in the South. Subsequently, nine cubs (six females and three males) were born, sired by the Northern Avoca Coalition.

By early 2020, the Talamati Pride journeyed further south, facing numerous challenges that resulted in the loss of three sub-adult members. Consequently, three out of the five adult females departed, leaving only two to tend to the remaining six sub-adults. Between 2022 and 2023, the four sub-adult females separated from the pride, venturing even deeper south where they encountered and subsequently followed the dominant Gijima Males.

Lion Sands

Returning to Lion Sands, a week or two after the arrival of the first female, the remaining lionesses also ventured onto the property. Initially favouring the northeastern parts, they gradually expanded their territory southward as their confidence grew. Inevitably, conflicts arose with the Southern Pride and the Styx Pride. After several altercations, the Talamati Pride established dominance over the eastern region of Lion Sands, while the Southern Pride claimed the west, and the Styx Pride the south.

Introducing the Msuthu Pride

Over the past year, we have been privileged to witness remarkable moments with the Talamati Pride, including the introduction of two litters: one comprising two females and one male, and another consisting of one male and one female. Given their independence from their natal pride, the decision was made in consultation with the non-profit Panthera who heads up the research work on big cats, and with our neighbouring properties, to give them their own name—the Msuthu Pride. Named after the Msuthu drainage line in their territory, it also pays homage to their initial use of the Msuthu as a refuge and den site for both litters of cubs.

We eagerly anticipate watching the Msuthu Pride flourish and thrive, excited to witness the future they carve out for themselves.Top of Form