Kwantu - predators

Kwantu has released a male lion and female lion in the main part of the reserve, and they now have two cubs with them. They are apparently very good hunters and enjoy the variety of cuisine offerings. While the rangers would like them to eat the wildebeest, warthogs and the plentiful antelope species, of which the blessbok herd is a bit larger than desired, they have been eating everything including the (expensive) giraffes and a rhino cub. We did not have the opportunity to see either of the wild lions, but a couple of times while chopping trees, we were reminded to pay attention to anything unusual, as there was no fence between us and them. Kwantu also has large enclosures where they are raising and breeding the large cats with intentions of returning some to the wild. We got to visit them while they were just chilling and another time when they were being fed. The cheetah wasn't feeling very friendly since we were not feeding him at the moment


The fence doesn't feel tall enough or strong enough when a cheetah snarls, bares its teeth and pounces at you. The white lions look very cool- they are not albinos but


A lot of the young lions are related to Zulu, the male released into the wild. Just before sunset, he comes near the cages and "talks" to them, and they talk back. We really enjoyed hearing all the roaring and grunting, which you can hear from quite a distance. This is something I will miss most about Kwantu.


Occasionally, a cow at a nearby farm will pass away, and will become a meal for the lions. Some of the lady lions during feeding time:


I have some more photos of the big cats feeding, but will save them to show you in person, as the they are a bit gruesome, and not sure how many blog viewers are squeamish. They also have some tigers which they are breeding and raising as if they will be released into the wild, but that will not be in Africa since they are not native there.


They do not have any babies right now but there were some juveniles, and we were able to go play with them. The tiger below, Bangles is ~6 months old.


She maybe cute, but her claws and teeth are sharp even when being playful (Hugh has plenty of scratches and cuts as evidence).


Of course, the vet thinks she can discipline her with a stern wave of the finger and a loud "No" like it is one of her domestic patients.


But Bangles isn't kept alone. Ares doesn't like to play with us, but is a good friend to Bangles.


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