According to statistics, there are very few white lions in the wild. They do not have albinism, but due to a special gene that causes loss of pigmentation and creates white fur. If you look closely, some areas such as the nose, mouth and feet… of this animal still have darker colors than the rest of the fur. Photo: Exclusive Getaways.
Although rare, white lions still belong to the same species as common lions (Panthera leo). Therefore, they are not on the list of special protection. White lions are hunted and only remain in the wild in Timbavati. Photo: National Geographic.
These mutants are endemic to the Timbavati region, South Africa, which includes parts of the Kruger National Park and the private game reserve andBeyond Ngala. Timbavati means “where sacred objects fall to earth” in the language of the indigenous Tsonga people. Photo: Catersnews.
Basically, white lions are considered extinct in the wild, but have been reintroduced in the Timbavati area since 2004. Currently, three prides of lions with white fur genes are living here. Some were brought to the Pumba reserve and Sanbona reserve in other parts of South Africa. Photo: Catersnews.
This new lion cub belongs to the Birmingham pride in the Ngala reserve. As soon as it was born, it had white fur and turquoise eyes. Bernard Stiglingh, tour guide at andBeyond Ngala Safari Lodge, said: “From what we saw, this lion was very playful and courageous. It stands out from its siblings not only because of its fur color, but also because of its curiosity, mischief and larger size.” Photo: Sean Messham.
Unfortunately, however, it is estimated that only about half of normal lion cubs live to adulthood. This rate for white lions is much lower. The yellow color of lions often helps them blend in with their surroundings. Meanwhile, the white color makes them stand out, making them easy to attract predators when they are young and difficult to hide and find food when they grow up. Photo: Sean Messham.
Rangers at andBeyond Ngala resort and andBeyond Ngala camp regularly monitor the white lion population. Visitors staying here will also have the opportunity to see this special lion species with their own eyes. Photo: Eric Rosen.
According to Stiglingh, a member of the guide here, to see lions, you need to be really patient. They are usually most active in the morning and evening. You can catch beautiful moments when the mother lion plays and interacts with her cubs. However, visitors need to follow strict rules to ensure they do not affect the lion population. Photo: Sean Messham.
Stiglingh had seen this white lion cub many times, but each time was special. He shared: “I can see them a thousand times but the joy is still the same. It’s a wonderful, unbelievable privilege that I get to see them so often. This is something that very few rangers, let alone ordinary people, get to experience. I hope, this white lion can survive and become the lord of the grassland.” Photo: Travelandleisure.
