At saving the King of the Jungle Eyes On The Prize

December 2019

Just out of this shot from the Maasai Mara should be a buffalo or zebra or something, but they were actually chasing this little warthog, and the female got it. They’re a bit more agile, you can see she’s got her turn ahead of the male. Three seconds later the warthog was in her mouth. You don’t want to show graphic images of kills, but I was pleased with the movement in this one. they do in those waking hours, though, that’s absolutely spellbinding. They’re amazing creatures to watch.

“As the only cat that lives in a social group, there’s always something going on, whether it’s a pride takeover or some sort of chase or hunt. Being there in those moments makes it all worthwhile.”

George says he’s incredibly privileged to be able to get up close and personal with the animals – especially as his years of experience now help him sense danger.

“Everybody asks about the scary moments,” he laughed. “We shoot from a filming vehicle that has no doors. I’m on the floor and the whole side of the vehicle is open. They come right up, within touching distance, even sniffing the other end of the long lens.

“For whatever reason, they don’t see us as prey, we’re not on the menu. Initially it takes a bit of getting used to until you recognise the body language that they’re not going to do you any harm.

“Occasionally we do get mock- charged, usually by the big males when they’re trying to mate or just don’t want you there. They generally charge about three or four metres, snarl at you and wander off.

“I love it. It’s an incredible privilege to be there watching them and seeing them do what they do.”

Lion: Pride Before The Fall is available n ow from bornfree. org. uk, or pridebefore thefall.com