Despite their reputation for being apex predators, lions aren’t always the most successful hunters, and when they fail right in front of a campsite, it’s even more embarrassing for them.
Spotted just outside the MalaMala camp, two lionesses found out the hard way that they’re not perfect hunters, and even the slightest mistakes can lead to them fumbling an almost perfect hunt.
Lions Lounging In The Sun
Every intense hunt begins with the calm before the storm, and this footage began with two lionesses as they enjoyed a nice rest to charge up their energy for when they would need it to bring down their prey.
They were lying on the ground within sight of the camp itself, and they seemed completely undeterred by the presence of potential tourists close by. They must have been secure enough in their own strength to not need to fear any other animals.
Despite their relaxed behavior, the hunt was calling to these two lionesses, as their hunger motivated them to stand, stretch, and move on in search of a likely looking meal.
Right On Their Doorstep
These lionesses didn’t have to search far before coming across some prey which looked good enough for them to eat. A small herd of impala was grazing nearby, and the two lionesses went immediately into hunting mode.
The big cats hunkered down in the long dry grass which offered the perfect camouflage for them, as it matched the color of their hides perfectly.
With such optimal conditions, it seemed like it was only going to be a matter of time before the lionesses ambushed one of the impala and enjoyed a tasty meal. Impatience proved to be their undoing, however, as one of the lionesses ruined their chances.
Throwing Away A Golden Opportunity
It’s not clear what gave the lions away. The slightest noise or misplaced paw could make the difference between a successful hunt or a hungry evening, and potentially with the loud rustle of long grass one of the lionesses had given themselves away.
At full alert, the herd of impala didn’t immediately flee, but they were aware of the presence of the lions and ready to run at the slightest provocation. The lionesses, which hadn’t managed to get close enough to pounce, had lost the opportunity to attack.
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If At First You Don’t Succeed
Despite their initial blunder, all was not lost for these lionesses as they had the good luck to quickly come across a separate herd of impala which had no idea the lions were hunting in the area. Fate had given them a rare second chance.
This second herd was much bigger than the first which gave the lionesses more opportunities for isolating a weaker member, but for these unlucky lions this second chance was to go as poorly as the first.
Although seeing two hunting attempts in such close succession made for an amazing sighting, the lionesses were frustrated with their failures and gave up for the day. Instead they returned to their resting place where they could reset after the two unlucky attempts.
