Lion's tail - Laurent Baheux - Wildlife Photographer of the Year2007

2007: Creative Visions - Specially Commended

Laurent Baheux Enlarge image Lion's tail

Laurent Baheux (France)

Lion's tail

'This lioness in Kenya's Masai Mara was relaxed but alert, stretched out on a termite nest. The only part of her that moved was her tail. Every so often, she would roll it up in a simple movement that to me symbolised her strength and vitality. Within five minutes, another lioness arrived, and the sisters strolled off together.' There are five species of lion. Most live across Africa, but a few live in a sanctuary in northern India. They are the most sociable of all the cats, usually living in groups of up to 10 females and their dependent young, and an associated two or three males. They are the only cats with a tuft of dark hair at the tips of their tails, which may help communicate moods.

Canon EOS 1D Mark II + Canon EF 600mm f4 IS USM lens; 1/500 sec at f8; ISO 200

This photograph is available to buy as a print.