The cubs of slain Zimbabwe lion Cecil are being protected by their uncle from the big cats lining up to take control of the pride.
Researchers at Oxford University’s Wildlife Conservation Unit, who were studying the beloved Cecil before Minnesota dentist Walter Palmer killed him with a bow, say the majestic lion’s brother is now in charge.
“The natural law in lion society is that when a male dies and his weakened coalition is usurped, the new incoming males kill their predecessor’s cubs,” project leader David Macdonald said.
Meanwhile, Palmer has yet to surface publicly, but a representative finally responded to US authorities on his behalf.
Officials at the US Fish and Wildlife Service confirmed that someone contacted them on Thursday, and Palmer is now cooperating with their investigation into Cecil’s death.