When five baby animals were abandoned by their mothers, their chances of survival seemed slim. However, three lions, a tiger, and a spotted hyena are now thriving together at the Akwaaba Lodge in Rustenburg, South Africa, where they share a unique bond under one roof.
Layla Cajee, the lodge owner, cared for these cubs after their mothers rejected them from birth.
The animals were deemed the runts of their families and would have struggled to survive in the wild without maternal care. Despite this, they grow up together and form a special connection.
Layla says, “They do squabble over food, and the dominant tiger usually takes her share first. However, I ensure all the animals get equal portions to prevent fighting. After eating, they usually cuddle up together for a nap.”
Bella, the five-month-old tiger, leads the group, while the three lions—Delano, Romeo, and Maximus—are also five months old but more reserved.
The eldest of the group, Milika the hyena, is six months old and known for her mischievous nature. Layla describes Milika as the most playful and boisterous of the bunch.
The cubs share living enclosures and even eat together, but their futures differ. In two years, these once-cuddly creatures will grow into full-fledged predators and need to be separated into individual enclosures to ensure their safety.
At Akwaaba Lodge, the unlikely friendship between these animals is a testament to the care and attention they receive, allowing them to thrive in an environment where survival once seemed impossible.
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