Up a Tree - Lion Cub

Lion cubs, like all ground mammals, have a sense of play. It is a good way to learn about relationships and even to practice hunting. I have seen so many family groups of lions I have lost count. They are usually so relaxed one could almost (but not quite) drive over a tail. However, only once have I seen the cubs go up a tree. I’m sure that it often happens because lions are quite capable of climbing (except perhaps for the larger, older ones). In a couple of place, such as Lake Manyara in Tanzania, climbing trees to sleep seems to be a custom. It is in the category of a culture passed on through generations.

This particular cub climbed the tree out of youthful exuberance. Then, not knowing what else to do, he promptly fell asleep.