Camera: Sony A9ii

Lens: Sony FE 200-600 f/5.6-6.3

Aperture: f6.3

Shutter speed: 1/500

ISO: 100

Description: In search of water this male lion heads to a nearby waterhole in the rising heat of the day, closely accompanied by hundreds of flies buzzing around his head.

Story from behind the lens: It was late morning and the temperature continued to rise. We had spent some time with this male and two others in the coalition, all 'flat cats' in the middle of the road. There was a small waterhole nearby and we knew they would move soon to quench their thirst. Our patience paid off and I took this photo as he walked towards us. It was only whilst reviewing my photos in camera that I sae just how many flies were surrounding him.