Bob Junior: Rivals kill the lion that was known as Serengeti's ‘king’

Rival lions have killed the lion known as Serengeti's King.

Online tributes have been made to "legendary" Bob Junior, also known as Snyggve, by tour operators and park visitors.

The "coolest cat" and the "most photogenic cat" in the Serengeti, Bob Jr. ruled for seven years with the assistance of his brother Tryggve.


The two are said to have been slain by younger competitors.

Bob Junior was the target of their attempts to topple him, Serengeti conservation officer Fredy Shirima told the BBC.

He said, "These episodes typically occur as the pride leader becomes older or occasionally when the other male lions are not pleased with his leadership over a big region.

The two were slain in separate but apparently coordinated strikes, Mr. Shirima said, adding that it is suspected that his brother suffered the same fate. But, we are working to corroborate this.



Some environmentalists said that Bob Junior, who was named after his father Bob Marley and was believed to be approximately 10 years old, enjoyed his celebrity status since he was constantly noticeable.

According to reports, when he was assaulted and killed on Saturday, Bob Junior did not defend himself.

Officials from the wildlife department are arranging for a formal burial on a future date.

Over 3,000 lions live in the Serengeti in northern Tanzania, a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Online tributes to the deceased king have been offered, notably by travel agencies.

FAQs:

1. What is the Serengeti famous for?
   It is most renowned for its enormous herds of animals from the plains.
2. Does anyone live in Serengeti?
   There are several native residents in the Serengeti region, with the Maasai being the most well-known.