a leopardess with one of her young 8 wk old cubs tucked in beside her, displays her anger at a trio of Steppe Buzzards who are looking at the possiblity of snatching an easy meal.
I don't think any of the 6/8 buzzards that were hovering overhead would actually attempt such a feat*, but mum wasn't going to take any chances, and soon after when they all landed in a fig tree closeby she raced off and jumped up the tree to send them a message!
*I have witnessed a Martial Eagle snatch a baby warthog, and there's been documentary evidence of them taking young cheetah cubs, but these guys are much smaller.
Central Serengeti- TZ.
Bean bag front pax seat, approx 30% crop for comp, curves, levels, TK adj's in ACR & PS CC'18.
Hi Marc - A really interesting behavioral image. I wonder if it is also possible that rather than the cubs being the target if there was a kill nearby? I like the vibrant colors of the sky and the comp of the frame. Well done.
Hi Marc - A really interesting behavioral image. I wonder if it is also possible that rather than the cubs being the target if there was a kill nearby? I like the vibrant colors of the sky and the comp of the frame. Well done.
TFS,
Rachel
No kill/s nearby, that was also our theory, however they do gather in large flocks come the wet season & migration time to feast on the bounty of life that all that brings.
This particular flock circled directly overhead mum and the cubs with some interest for sure, still unusual and most interesting to witness.
That cats eyes are certainly fixed on that bird Marc,great the way you have captured the moment,did it last for long?very intersting picture and story.
I have seen birds of prey harassing leopards on a few occasions, even though they do not pose a threat to them
Nice composition here (well balanced) and the colours are great, content is superb - love it
As is often the case your pictures tell a story, this is no exception, it all makes for a very interesting image. I am sure the buzzards were left in little doubt over the possibility of a meal .
HI Marc -- Excellent behavioural aspect captured here , indeed a very interesting frame , with lovely sky and framing. Liked the snarling leopard . Nicely done . TFS !