This is a documentary of a lion kill in central Serengeti in 2013. I was very lucky to be at the right place, in the right time and to witness the entire sequence of events. The experience was so intense that I can still recall all the little details.
The Lone Buffalo
A lone male buffalo is grazing in Serengeti, near a river bank.
The Huntress
A lioness sitting with her pride on the other side of the bank gets very interested and decides to take a closer look.
Going Stealth
After crossing the shallow river, she goes low against the wind to avoid detection. She approaches form the back and launches a quick attack, scratching the back of the buffalo.
Deadly Tango
The bleeding and obviously pissed off buffalo launches an attack to our vehicle, forcing us to go full speed in reverse to avoid the impact. He returns to the plains only to meet his destiny, engaging in a deadly dance.
Attack
Two minutes and four rounds later the lioness manages to get behind the buffalo and climbs on his back.
Full Force
She is using her nails to get a hold of the buffalo and grabs a healty piece of skin with her powerful jaws. Her abdominal muscles are fully tensed from the force she is exercising.
Down
The 2000lb buffalo comes down immediately, unable to react from the shock of the attack.
Immobilize
A second, then a third lioness come to help working in sync to immobilize the buffalo and cut his thigh tendons to criple him and avoide an escape.
Stay Away
The lioness makes it clear that the meal is for her and her family only. No one should come close.
Kill
The huntress is working on the mouth to suffocate the victim. After about ten minutes of fighting back and jerking the buffalo finally gives in.
The King
The king of the pride approaches from the distance and gives us an intense look while his family is already taking seats around the table. He will stay there to make sure that everything will go smoothly.
Savoring
Six lion cubs arrive and start working on the kill. The lionesses have already licked the flesh to make it softer and opened a hole in the underbelly.
Cleaning
The tender mother is cleaning her cubs from the blood and excrement that come from eating the buffalo's intestines.
Finally Alone
Contrary to popular belief, the patriarch came last, after his pride had all they could eat.
The Lion's Share
He takes his time to feed well and gain the strength he needs to protect his pride.
The Next Day
The next day is the time for the vultures to consume the remains of the kill.