Monday, 3rd day of our week-long safari in the Masai Mara, with Michel Denis-Huot.
Today, a new search area along a small watercourse.
The spot is normally frequented by a female leopard and her two cubs.
We start by finding the mother perched in a tree, deep in digestion. Almost routine.
Good news reaches us next: the cubs have been located 1 km from there.
We arrive at the spot in question. Another vehicle is already there. Nothing in sight for now.
On the other side of the stream, we spot the entrance to a den.
Michel positions the 4×4. Telephoto lenses are ready! Patience…
Long minutes pass and finally, the reward arrives: two little faces appear.
They are indeed there: two leopard cubs, two months old.
Mother leopard and her cub in the Masai Mara
Shy at first, they then come out completely and start playing, leaping around in every direction.
The cameras click away — this moment must be captured!
After a while, always too short, birds pass by noisily at low altitude.
Immediately, the frightened cubs retreat to the safety of the den.
The magic moment has passed, but the smiles on the photographers’ faces say it all.
We would even be lucky enough to see them again several times over two days.
Unforgettable!
Jean-François Poudron
