Lions are usually addressed as beasts. “ A lion, mighty
among beasts, who retreats before nothing” – is a well-known proverb. Male
African lions can be ten feet long and weigh four hundred pounds or more, and
many in the Serengeti appear to be pushing the limits of its species.
During my recent visit to Namiri plains we were lucky to
encounter the six brothers whose territory is well confined well within where
Namiri camp is situated and its hinterlands. This was not a normal encounter. Not
a “game drive – look lions” encounter. It all began when we were having drinks
by the fireplace boma, enjoying sundowner bites prepared to perfection by the
chef - Daniel. We heard struggling sounds of a buffalo. It sounded like a big
buffalo, as it was a series of explosive “help me” grunts. It also wasn’t very
far from the camp. Erasto, Okeyo & Hamza (the present guides at camp) and
Epimark – “Mark” (the manager) who were present with us at the fireplace easily
drew conclusion that this was a kill. A lion kill. It must be the 6 brothers as
it is not easy to put down a buffalo, that too an adult. The excitement was overwhelming!!
We said a little prayer on behalf of the buffalo in our
hearts. We all knew that the morning game drive was going to be stunning. And
surely it was.
Akil Halai – July 2016 – Namiri Plains – Asilia Lodges &
Camps
