In an extraordinary moment captured on camera by Mark Fox, Kerry Balaam, and Jean Graham, a pride of lions was seen climbing a tree to escape rising floodwaters. The sight was both unusual and breathtaking, with the majestic cats balancing high on branches, appearing from a distance as if they were stacked one on top of the other. Since lions are not typically known for their climbing abilities, the spectacle left onlookers in awe.
Although lions prefer to remain on the ground, extreme circumstances can push them to adapt. While leopards are celebrated climbers, lions generally lack the agility and motivation to scale trees—unless forced by necessity. In this case, avoiding the floodwaters was motivation enough. Once settled in the branches, some lionesses dangled their paws and even managed to catch a few moments of rest, while others kept watch over the territory from their elevated position.
This rare behavior highlights just how resourceful lions can be in the face of environmental challenges. While climbing trees is not their natural instinct, floodwaters, biting insects, or even threats from larger animals like elephants can push them to higher ground. In this case, the rising water forced the pride to do what lions rarely do—take to the trees for safety. It was a remarkable reminder of how even the fiercest predators must adapt to nature’s unpredictable conditions.
