What you need to know about the Tree Climbing Lions of Uganda

The Tree-Climbing Lions of East Africa

The tree climbing lions are a rare breed of animals that there are only two documented populations on the planet that have been noted while a leopard sleeping in the tree tops is a common phenomenon on a safari in the bush the behavior exhibited by these lions is quite strange and has been a subject of interest. These rare breed of lions are found tucked deep in Queen Elizabeth National Park in Ishasha, Western Uganda. The other population of these elusive tree-climbing lions can be spotted around Lake Manyara Game Reserve in Southern Tanzania. Both of these countries are in East Africa.

About these Lions

According to experts Lions are believed to climb trees as a behavioral adaptation to protecting themselves from the constant irritation insect bites while lazing on the ground under trees. These lions have perfected the art of climbing trees as a way of escaping the sweltering heat on the ground. This way, they enjoy a cool breeze and blissful nap without worrying about the happenings on the ground. Moreover, this position is an excellent vantage point from which to observe the movement of prey as they cross the plains in search of grazing opportunities and water.



While lions are not physically adapted to climbing trees, these distinct groups have been able to master this skill over time and teach their young to do the same; a great example of learned behavior as opposed to natural instinct.

Where they are found

These tree-climbing lions can be found at Lake Manyara Park in Tanzania or Ishasha at Queen Elizabeth National Park In Uganda these two National Parks will reward you with the scenic views of the picturesque landscape but also with a chance to stumble upon the population of the exceptional tree-climbing lions. For example, in Ishasha, the lions can be seen atop huge fig tree branches as they keenly look out for a herd of peacefully grazing antelopes, gazelles, and impalas. These herbivores form the main prey of these tree-loving lions. If you're lucky enough, you may catch this rare spectacle of a lion gingerly and carefully moving around a tree branch before pouncing on the ground.