big cats

the first time i saw a lion in the wild, i cried, not only because i was awed, but because i was terrified. it wasn't until after the shock and thrill of seeing them sunk in and i began to learn of their dwindling numbers, that i began to realize the privilege of being in the company of these great cats. ten years, three trips, five countries (and many more lion encounters later) i can say that africa and it's lions have truly changed my life.

i'm going to try to do justice to a new documentary and book by conservationist filmmakers Beverly + Dereck Joubert, called The Last Lions.
The Jouberts, both National Geographic Explorers in Residence based in Botswana, are dedicated to understanding and preserving key species throughout the African continent. The couple is particularly interested in large predators, and lead the Big Cats Initiative, a campaign to stop shrinking populations and bolster public awareness.

ngorongoro crater, tanzania

serengeti national park, tanzania

masai mara, kenya

zambezi river, zimbabwe ( on safari)

madwike game reserve, south africa

i've not yet seen the film, but i know it will be epic. i've been collecting the Jouberts books and watching their videos since the early 1990's. they are incredibly talented filmmakers and photographers, and they know the Okavango (and lions) probably better than anyone. if you have an interest i've included some places for you to visit, where you can learn more.

some lovely links :

to meet Beverly + Dereck and hear them share about their new film go here.

to watch the official trailer of The Last Lions, go here. (Fantastic)

for more information about african lions and the Big Cat Initiative go here.

to buy the book, go here, or your independant book seller.

and ...
Enter The Last Lions Sweepstakes and you could be the lucky winner of an amazing, once-in-a-lifetime trip for two to experience the lush landscapes, abundant wildlife, and fascinating culture of Botswana, Africa. You will even get to visit the Okavango Delta (where The Last Lions was filmed) on a 12-day private safari! This incredible trip includes round-trip air to Botswana, travel within Africa, and all hotel accommodations.

Enter once a day for your chance to win, now through
March 31, 2011.

Safari Njema and good luck everyone, i'm crossing my fingers for you!

♥ lori

p.s. i had so much fun going through my old photos, finding the lions and scanning them in to share. i forgot about a lot of film that i want to do this with. i know what i'll be dreaming of tonight! africa africa africa...