Dawn in the Central Kalahari, Botswana, and the air is utterly still. Three lions move through the bush in single file – silent, steady, purposeful, says veterinary surgeon Wendy Furness, who captured the footage.
Moments earlier they'd been apart, one tracking the others through the thorn trees until the group reformed as one.
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What strikes you first is the pace. Lions move far faster than you'd expect, covering ground effortlessly, almost gliding. There's no wasted energy, no hesitation. Every step is focused.
And the intent is unmistakable: they are going hunting, racing the morning before the heat sets in. Here lies the secret to their success – lions are far deadlier as a unit than alone. Minds fixed firmly on the prize, they slip deeper into the bush together.
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