Claws, not jaws: Sasan Gir lioness goes on a strange safari sabotage spree, targeting vehicle tyres

In the wilderness near Devalia Safari Park in Gujarat’s Sasan Gir, a young lioness has become something of a local celebrity — not for hunting skills, but for a strange, persistent habit: puncturing the tyres of parked safari vehicles, according to a TOI report.

Tourists recently captured a video of the lioness in action, and the footage quickly made waves online. It shows her calmly approaching a parked jeep, sniffing around it, and then suddenly launching a surprise attack — not on the humans, but on one of the tyres. In seconds, she expertly bites down on the valve, releasing a loud hiss as the air escapes. The lioness then walks away, mission complete, leaving behind a startled audience and a flat tyre.

TOI reported that locals and park staff say this isn’t a one-off. The animal has done it multiple times and now has a reputation in the area. “We’ve seen her do this before,” a safari guide said. “Around here, we call her ‘puncture wali sinhan’. She has a real talent for it.”


Possible reasons behind the odd habit
While the behaviour might seem comical, forest officials are trying to understand why this lioness is so interested in tyres. According to Mohan Ram, deputy conservator of forests, the vehicle might have carried traces of scents that triggered the lioness’s instincts. “Sometimes dogs or other animals ride in or near these vehicles, and the lingering smell could be provoking her. It's not aggression — more likely curiosity or irritation,” he explained to TOI.

The vehicle shown in the viral video is part of the official safari fleet that operates inside Devalia Park. Although this specific incident drew attention, officers say such occurrences, while rare, are not entirely new.

Devalia Safari Park is a fenced area that gives tourists a chance to observe lions in a semi-natural environment. While the ‘puncture wali’ lioness adds an element of unpredictability to the safari experience, officials insist that safety measures are in place and all unusual behaviour is closely monitored, noted the news outlet.

Because in the lion territory of Gir, you might drive in for a safari — but leave with a flat tyre and a wild story