Where to See Tree Climbing Lions in East Africa

Talking of the tree-climbing lions!! This sounds quite curious to anyone who has never heard of the existence of these creatures. According to expert animal behaviorists, it is not common behavior for lions to climb and relax in trees. Rather, lions are known to lay under trees for shade. The unusual behavior of lions climbing trees is so rare and there are only two documented populations of these cats; only in East Africa- Queen Elizabeth national park in western Uganda and Lake Manyara national park, south of Tanzania.

In Queen Elizabeth national park, the tree-climbing lions are seen in Ishasha located in the southern sector of the park while the population in Tanzania lives around in Lake Manyara national park. A few sightings have been recorded in South Africa’s Kruger national park though these are not as common as in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Manyara national parks.

Why do lions climb trees?

Two major reasons have been assumed to be the reason for this phenomenon; to escape from the constant irritation of insect bites in the grass and to run away from the savannah heat on the ground. They are seen enjoying the fresh air and a cozy nap on the branches of the trees.

Their positions on the trees also help the lions to scan their prey around the savannah plains. Some of the prey include antelopes, warthogs and buffaloes.

However much these are the only two documented populations of tree climbing lions, reasons for their behavior are only assumptions without data and research. Come and witness this by visiting their habitats. Simply send us an email to info@cycadssafaris.com / safariscycads@gmail.com