Lionesses form the core of lion pride and are responsible for hunting and raising cubs. At birth, a lioness will find a secluded den to raise the cubs and keep them safe. Cubs are born blind and extremely vulnerable to the elements and scavengers. At this time the cubs only rely on the mother’s milk and as they grow, the lioness will introduce them to solid food.

As the cubs become more active and curious, the lioness allows them to venture out of the den and start exploring their surroundings. I was fortunate to photograph this lioness and her very young cub very soon after the cub started leaving the den in Sabi Sands, Greater Kruger NP, ZA. Picture taken with the NikonD5 and 500mm lens.