This is the incredible moment when a lion couple appears to be caught in the middle of a lovers’ quarrel.
The male was attempting to demonstrate his alpha-male credentials by displaying his teeth to entice the female.
The lion couple proving relationships are hard work
But she appeared to take offense, lashing out with her sharp claws and swiping at his face.
Luckily, the couple appeared to make up later after cooling off.
In February, keen snapper Massimo Mei, 53, captured the human-like moment on a trip to the Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.
Curling his lip, the male lion isn’t in the mood for a domestic
Massimo, from Rome, Italy, said: “I was surprised at the scene and their behavior.
“It appeared very much like human emotions, though perhaps not at the start or end of a relationship.”
Frustration causes the female lion to lash out
“The male’s expressions were hilarious, and I fought to keep a straight face while shooting photographs.
“It was a surprise when the female turned on him and att.a.cked. I wasn’t anticipating this at all.”
“He was attempting to show his teeth and persuade the female that he was a decent strong alpha male.”
“But she treated him as if she were irritated.”
