Following the death of Netsai, partner to Humba last year possibly in September or October, fans of Hwange have been concerned about Humba. Humba and Netsai have been great favourites of regular Hwange visitors. They held reign for many (lion) years at Ngweshla and so were viewed by hundreds of Hwange wildlife lovers, both local and international, being a key tourist attraction for Zimbabwe. They have been filmed and photographed countless times and were noted for their relaxed nature when tourist vehicles would park near them. They became firm favourites and much loved.

Netsai (Right) with Humba, a lifelong partnership – photo S. Walton

Camp Silwane was so pleased when they moved into the Kennedy, The Hide and Silwane areas and guests were thrilled to see them regularly in their usual relaxed mode with people.

They joined with lionesses and cubs were born, though there was uncertainty who the father was as both were seen mating. It was an absolute delight seeing the cubs born to these magnificent males.

Then Netsai was not seen for a time which was unusual. Previous key lions in the area such as Cecil and more recently Mopane have been hunted ( August, September appear being the usual months when this happens) and the worst was feared. Finally unofficial news made its way that Humba was no more. Besides shock and sadness with the loss of this lion concern grew for the welfare of Humba. How would he cope without his life- long companion? How could he protect the pride and cubs, being an older though healthy male? Nature in this case could now take its course with another male or coalition of males taking over the pride after killing or chasing off Humba and most likely killing the cubs so they could have cubs of their own.

Humba was seen less often but to the Camp’s relief a guest shared photos of Humba moving hesitantly in bushes in February 2024 with more confident lionesses and a cub. So Humba was OK but with a distinctive nervousness around people. But where were the other cubs?

A hesitant Humba eyeing visitors Feb 2024 – photo K. Stanger

Humba Pride lioness with cub, February 2024 – photo K. Stanger

Then another visitor to Hwange shared her photos which showed 2 sets of cubs. Three older and four much younger, possibly 5 months old. 7 in total! Such wonderful news.

Young Cubs from Humba’s Pride seen recently – photo Moira Cunningham

Humba’s young cubs with older cubs. These could be Netsai’s. – photo Moira Cunningham

Concern remains though. The cubs depend on Humba surviving on his own and being able to protect his pride. We hope that Humba can continue successfully until nature alone takes its course giving the cubs a chance to grow into adulthood.

Silwane Conservation Area is determined not to allow these losses to discourage us but in fact we are more dedicated than ever to allow a safe space for wildlife to ream freely and maybe with time and support even to expand it.

Magnificent Humba Feb/March 2024- photo Moira Cunningham