Big 5s

Melissa Groo

Photographer

“I would have to choose the African Lion. There is no creature more powerful, more sexy, more iconic.

I’m drawn to the beauty of lions but also deeply fascinated by their strong family bonds. There’s not much I’d rather do than just watch them for hours, especially mothers with their cubs or courting males and females.

I think the moment that struck me the most was sitting over a long period of time with a pride that was lolling about in the shade as they often do. There were males, females, and cubs of various ages. Suddenly, someone cried, “Look, one’s coming over there.” Just in view, over the slight rise of a hill, came a beautiful big male. One of the females in the group seemed particularly tuned into his approach, and while he was still at least 100 yards away she stood up and walked towards him, then just stood and waited. He made a direct approach to her and they had an extraordinarily affectionate reunion, nuzzling, and vocalizing, and rubbing the lengths of their bodies against each other. It was obvious they had a strong bond as mates. I was lucky enough to capture that display, and those photos remain among my most treasured.

Lions are simply magnificent animals and we are privileged to share this Earth with them.”

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