Watch: Campers Wake Up to Lions Licking Tent

by
posted on May 24, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

When you go camping, you're putting yourself smack dab in the middle of nature. When you go camping in Africa, that nature is often full of some of the world's largest, most dangerous critters. A few sightseers in Africa's Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park (which sits on the border of South Africa and Botswana, for the record) recently had the wake-up call of a lifetime, courtesy of a couple of the aforementioned critters.

A video originally posted to Facebook by a "Francie Francisca Lubbe‎" shows two lions licking water off the side of a tent in the park—which very much has at least one person inside, obviously, given the perspective of the video. Props to the camera operator for remaining relatively cool and collected while just inches away from a pair of nature's most dangerous predators. I know camping gear is high-tech nowadays, but those cats could cut through that tent faster than I could a candy bar wrapper if the mood struck.

In this case, there was no further incident with the big cats. They had their morning drink and moved on. Hey, I like some water when I first wake, too. Still, it doesn't get much more "up close and personal" than this one. Check out the video for yourself—it's embedded above. You can also click here.

Latest

Largest Crowd Ever
Largest Crowd Ever

Clemson University Conservation Program Reaches Endowment Goal

The Boone and Crockett Club recently announced the wildlife conservation program at Clemson University has reached its $5 million endowment goal. Thanks to more than a decade of fundraising and support led by club member Johnny Evans—and other key contributors—the studies at the school focusing on sound, scientific wildlife conservation will continue into the future.

Know How: First Guns for Junior Shooters

Curious what gun to start out a junior shooter on? Bryce Towsley is a man with experience. Read on for some tips on what to get the young hunter in your life.

New for 2026: Kent Cartridge Southern Reserve Dove

Kent Cartridge introduces Southern Reserve Dove, a purpose-built load designed for fast shooting and performance in the dove fields.

#SundayGunday: Springfield Armory SA-35 4"

Springfield's SA-35 4” maintains the “wood and steel” vibes of yesteryear, with a blued finish on the gun’s carbon steel, and checkered walnut grips. Curious about this updated version of a true classic? Check out this exclusive edition of #SundayGunday.

Will Grizzly Bear Management be Returned to the States?

When the grizzly bear in the Lower 48 was given Endangered Species Act (ESA) protection as a threatened species in 1975, it was supposed to be a temporary protection that would be lifted once populations met or exceeded specific goals. Now more than a half century later and with grizzly populations that have spread and met or far surpassed the goals set in 1975.

New for 2026: Leupold LCO Pro F2 Red-Dot

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has launched its LCO Pro F2 red-dot sight, combining optical clarity, reliability and purpose-built features in a full-sized red dot.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.