New lions the pride of Nkomazi

A pride of lions was released into Nkomazi Game Reserve, a Mantis property, much to the delight of wildlife management, staff and guests in attendance. These are the first lions to be returned to the upper Komati River Valley in almost 200 years.

The pride, comprising two males and two females, was sourced from sister reserves Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape and Sanbona Wildlife Reserve in the Western Cape. The new lions will add a diverse genetic composition for the founding populations. These lions have been monitored from birth and the Mantis wildlife team is confident that they will adapt well to life in their new home.

The presence of free-roaming lions on Nkomazi is part of the property’s objective of becoming a top destination in wildlife conservation and tourism in Mpumalanga. Over the following months and years, wildlife section manager Manzi Spruit and animal monitor Stefan Swanepoel will keep a close eye on the lions’ movements and feeding patterns.

“The sense of excitement and achievement at Nkomazi is almost tangible and makes the months of careful preparation all the more worthwhile. It adds a whole new dimension to this beautiful game reserve,” says Spruit.