Mating Game - Lion Pair

It is not difficult to see lions in 'safari country' of Africa. In fact, it is almost impossible not to see them. It is, however, a special privilege to witness the "mating game". Actually it is not much of a game. When the female is ready, often a friend of the dominant male - sort of a best man - spends time with her to help get her in the mood, close but not consummated. Then the main male comes close but just sort of hangs around with a sheepish expression. All of a sudden with a great deal of snarling and growling he makes the connection. This lasts for a few seconds. She snarls and snaps and so does he but it is mostly bluff. He then lies down near her and she rolls over and lies down not far away. Then they wait. Then they do it again. This goes on for days. Except for the brief "moments of truth" the whole scene projects an image of langour and boredom. However, that brief moment makes it all worthwhile from the lions' point of view and from the artist's point of view.