In January, our team observed Nanai struggling to eat and hunt because of a large growth in her mouth. Nanai’s three cubs were still months away from being able to survive on their own, and we knew that it was imperative for us to take action to help Nanai and her family. We worked with KWS and on a warm January morning under the shade of an Acacia tree, Nanai was operated on and her growth removed.  This was an extraordinary achievement and our concern for her for so many months changed to relief and excitement as we watched her recover.  She recovered well and was able to hunt again and raise her cubs for an additional four months until sadly we had to say goodbye. Her cubs have been fending for themselves since April and they recently teamed up other members of their pride. We have been monitoring the cubs closely and are very hopeful about their future.

Nanai lived an amazing life and continued the legacy her mother Nashipai left. We have known Nanai since her birth and she was named by Jeneria meaning “mine” in Samburu. We have watched her grow up as she taught us so much about the lions of the north. She had a huge impact on the landscape and the lion population, and we are all so grateful for every moment we had with her.  We are so grateful to all at KWS, Samburu and Buffalo Springs Reserves management and rangers, and all guides who reported sightings and were concerned about her. Thank you all so much.

We are celebrating the life of this special lioness. If you have been to Samburu, the chances are you were lucky to see Nanai. She will always remain a real legend and icon of Samburu. Here are some of our favourite photos: