In order to raise awareness of endangered species a Los Angeles-based wildlife photographer, Simon Needham takes stunning portraits of different animals. He also got the rare opportunity to revisit Glen Garriff Conservation located in South Africa to take some magnificent images of the white lions in their care.
During this experience, the photographer from L.A. came very close to some of the majestic beasts to capture their striking coloration and elegance.
Simon Needham
Although sometimes mistaken for an albino lion, white lions actually occur due to a recessive genetic mutation in a condition called leucism. In order for a cub to be born with a white coloration, both parents must possess this recessive gene.
Simon Needham
Here we see a white lion basking in the sunlight sitting ever so peacefully.
Simon Needham
Sourced from an interview with The Modern Met, Simon Needham also said, “At GG Conservation they have several white lions but white lions are rare in the wild. This is because their coloring is the result of a genetic mutation in which two copies of the gene must be present for the white coat to show up in the animal. … The white lions are categorized as towny African lions (Panthera leo).”
Simon Needham
A picture can surely capture a certain sight, but beauty is beyond the shutter of a camera’s lens. Look at how those lion’s ocean blue eyes are sparkling with intuition and determination.
Simon Needham
Simon Needham
The eyes chico… they never lie. Especially if it’s that of a white lion’s.
Simon Needham
It’s funny how dangerous these predators are, but it’d make you stop in your track and stare at their astounding presence.
Simon Needham
Simon Needham
At least once in your life time, you have gotta hear a lion actually ROAR. It’s a sight and sound to marvel, that’ll shiver your timbers. Let’s add that to our bucket lists shall we?