The Mapogos may well have been the most infamous lion pride in all of Africa. They were unique in that they were a six male lion coalition (five of which were brothers) that joined together nearly 10 years ago, and have since dominated one of the wildest parts of Southern Africa, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve.
Named after a South African security company sometimes said to have harsh and questionable methods, the Mapogos were able to control such a large region through size, intimidation, strength and fear. - not to mention attempting to kill nearly every single male lion they came across including cubs that were not their own. It is estimated that they have killed well over 100 lions throughout their reign, and they have even been known to eat them afterwards.
They also maintained control through their somewhat unorthodox mating practices. As where a normal pride would have one dominant male for its females in a given territory, the Mapogos would mate with many females in multiple prides across their entire massive region. This seemed to be an attempt to make sure that any lion cubs growing up in the area were from their bloodline.
One well known account of the rise of the Mapogos concerned a rival pride that was a coalition of two males known as the Nkuhumas. The two males had been mating with females from a pride that the Mapogos also had a vested interest in. The brothers dealt with this threat directly, as was their way. They killed one of the male lions, then chased off the other, mated with the lionesses and killed some of the Nkuhuma cubs. There were many reports in the days following the assault of wounded Nkuhuma lionesses and cubs that had been killed but the total death count is unknown.
As far as prey goes there is almost nothing beyond their reach. They have been known to take down full grown male giraffes, rhino, hippo and massive buffalo as you can see in the video below.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMJG4FpKE78
Even powerful coalitions have one particular member whose mere presence creates legend. For the Mapogos this would be none other than the notorious “ Mr.T”, also known as “SaTan”. His mohawk style mane has been the last thing seen by many a creature. To observers, he is known for being almost intentionally cruel and at the same time completely indifferent to the prey he leaves in his wake - including other lions.
Mr T, of Mapogo lions. His roar,his last fight and his last breath.
The Mapogos ... greatest male lion coalition ever
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