S99 Punda Maria Lion (Kruger NP)

 animals, nature conservation park / area

-National Park
This lion circled around our vehicle and eventually came and laid down right next to our car (±2m away). By that time I gathered enough nerve to open my windows again to get some clear shots, not distorted or discoloured by the "impure" glass of the Nissan Tiida's windows.

I sat for an extended period with my camera focussed on this guy (until my arms eventually grew tired) in anticipation of a nice big roar so I could capture this beast in the process. But, as fate would have it, just the very moment I dropped my arms and camera, this guy let rip with another mighty roar, but needles to say it was all too late. Another opportunity missed due to fatigue and impatience.

A couple of times this young lion would give an impressive burst of roars and grunts. Enough to make the hearing sensitive loose their ability to observe any sound. Lions make it very clear who's the boss: males stake out territory with a deafening roar that can be heard through the African night for up to 8 kilometres. Thus, sitting 2m away from a roaring lion does something to your ears and bowels as the din far exceeds the levels of pleasure to the ears. It is a most impressive experience to say the least and the intimidation factor surely makes it a memorable moment that far outlasts the "pain" (discomfort) to the ears. The experience of Africa "at its very best"!
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