Camera: Nikon D750

Lens: Sigma 100-400

Aperture: f / 6.0

Shutter speed: 1/4000

ISO: 800

Description: A protective lioness snarls as the car gets too close to her young cub.

Story from behind the lens: Jacob heard that some young cubs had been spotted with two lionesses near the 4km area. Initially the mother was relaxed and let the cubs run around play fighting with each other. They came back for a cuddle and the mother then snarled at us, warning not to come any closer, allowing this nice capture.

The shot represents the ferocity with which lionesses protect their cubs. Lionesses often fight (sometimes to the death) with lions when a pride is taken over by a new male who seek to kill all existing clubs in the pride. It’s an image of motherly dedication, unconditional love and fierce protection.