Camera: Canon R5

Lens: RF 100-500 mm f/4.5-7.1

Aperture: f/9

Shutter speed: 1/1250

ISO: ISO 1250

Description: A lioness tenderly carries one of her cubs to a new destination

Story from behind the lens: The same powerful jaws that can bring down large prey animals can also be gentle means by which to transport young cubs. It is remarkable to watch a skilled huntress transform into a patient, devoted parent when surrounded by her cubs. This little cub is the beneficiary of being carried from one den to another by a fierce predator few other animals would dare to confront. I got the image from a doors-off safari vehicle. When we arrived on the scene, my driver guide positioned the vehicle so we would be ahead of the lioness as she came forward in our direction.