Image #8 Lioness: Tanzania Africa

Female lions generally hunt in groups to capture large animals. Lionesses are meat-eating carnivores and the dominant predators on the land in all habitats. Although many carnivores live alone in pairs, female lions and their families spend most of their time in cooperative association with each other. Female lions form close-knit, long-term social groups. In females, these are called prides and average 4-6 related adults and their cubs. They occupy territories as large as the city of Los Angeles, passed down from one generation of lionesses to the next.

“This image would not have been possible without the assistance of our highly skilled guide, Themistocles Bamwenda. He shared his world of knowledge of animal facts, animal behavior and information on how animals interact with the environment, with each other and the Tanzanian culture. Themi was also very mindful of protecting us from the danger that one can encounter when near animals freely roaming in the wilderness.

Approximately 90 percent of the Tanzanians strongly believe in the protection and preservation of their nations’ wildlife, and many participate in advocacy projects, working to protect animal life and preserve their famous national parks; in addition, the Tanzanians carefully measure and plan for others to have the experience of a safari and a lot is involved behind the scenes. Tanzanians engage in a tireless devotion and selfless, around-the-clock labor of love for the preservation of the environment so that tourists can have the experience and bear witness.

My encounter with the Tanzanian people and their culture and with the country’s beautiful animals was a magical experience. It was an honor, and I will forever be grateful for the memories.”

Resources: Clutton-Brock, Juliet; Kim Dennis-Byran; and Don W. Wilson. 2001. Carnivores. In Animal, edited by David Burnie and Don E. Wilson. 1 ed. New York: DK Publishing
Tanzania Safari Guide: Themistocles Bamwenda