The Best Lion Dad ever

Although the interactions between male lions and lion cubs are often limited and may not involve any nurturing behavior, this Ngotso pride male (one of the 3 Balule males) is definitely an exception; showing his gentle side. He tolerated the playful cubs all over him; only disciplining them when their sharp claws scratched his face. The second pride male could only tolerate the cubs for a short while; he left to find a secluded spot close by. Not only does this show how lion cubs can interact with male lions but it clearly reflects the difference in personalities of different male lions. The interactions between lion cubs and adult males are a blend of nurturing, teaching, and sometimes disciplining, which are vital for the cubs’ growth and integration into the pride. Understanding these dynamics provides insight into the complex social structures and survival strategies of lions. The territory of the Ngotso lion pride is north of Satara Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park.

[@henryrodgers1752]

Dad has got to watch the kids while Mom and the Aunties shop at Wildebeest Mart!

[@buffiesilver]

Yes that one male didn't take long wanting someplace by himself, not to be bothered. The other one didn't seem to mind to play I'm glad he didn't hurt the cub when he laid all on top of it. They are big beautiful boys. I hope the cubs grow big and strong like their dads. Thank you for sharing this side of males.

[@helensieben3182]

You can tell, these are not first time fathers. They have babysat for many of their cubs.

[@Ivanovic5580]

It was so funny when that big lion dad flopped over the little cub. 😂😂

[@lilgucci_____]

Second male lion walks up and said oh you wanna play then lays on the cub 🦁😂😂

[@raidermanic872]

Those cubs are well protected.

[@karendobbs8153]

I was getting nervous when I saw the lion start to lie down on the little cub, but all was okay. The lion dad was so patient with little cubs.

[@ronthompson95]

Young lion: Mom!!’ Dad trying to use me like a pillow!!” Dad lion: “we’ll see who protects you the next time a predator goes after you!”

[@artyfhartie2269]

All kids behave like this when they feel loved , safe and protected

[@AEvans36963]

He was making sure to keep an eye on the observers.

[@lalithamichael2668]

The male on the right is so good to his cubs and very tolerant, adorable video!

[@marywenzel3199]

Kids of every species: “Let’s play our favorite game, Climb on Dad.”

[@lastsunofkrypton7950]

Best Lion dad yes…….but that uncle though. Lol.

[@kaycampbell8532]

Those two males are the most relaxed I've ever seen. Most don't tolerate the cubs shenanigans without getting a bit grumpy. Very sweet video!💋💕

[@genekruithoff5795]

The cubs are why males are so aggressive when defending their prides . These are great fathers .

[@branjosnow6244]

Wow, I don't think I've seen this kind of interaction between male lions and cubs before?

[@jamiegill2640]

Dad and Uncle Larry watching the kids. Uncle Larry's are the ones who roughhouse with the kids.

[@alanakemp7664]

He lookin like... "when is yall mama coming back? It dont take that long to catch no wilderbeast!"

[@Fffggghhjjkbbvdd]

Perfect embodiment of what a dad should be: their kids should feel welcome and free to climb all over them and play with them, and yet they have the ability to flip that switch and do terrible violence to anyone who threatens the pride with an unmatched ferocity. May God give us more human dads like this

[@xprodigyx9069]

Mom and her girls are out hunting, and the dad is being the best house husband he can be!