Chanuka
The traditional method of controlling lions has been to break their spirit with whips and beatings. However, Richardson has taken a different approach. By forming personal ties with each lion, he claims to be well acquainted with their individual personalities and can understand when they are happy or unhappy. This unique method of communication has resulted in a peaceful coexistence between man and lion.
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Richardson’s relationship with lions began 15 years ago, and he has learned how they interact and develop with one another. He has also learned that the greatest time to establish a relationship with a lion is when it is young. He met two of his lions, Tau and Napoleon, when they were just six months old and now, 16 years later, they consider him a part of the pack.
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But isn’t he scared? According to Richardson, fear has nothing to do with it. He argues that the traditional belief that lions are killing machines is incorrect. Instead, he believes that if you respect lions, they will be incredibly accepting of individuals. He also notes that if you come in scared, the lion will notice, and the relationship will not thrive.
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Richardson’s method of communication is not without its dangers, and he is aware of the fate of other individuals who have attempted to interact with wild animals.
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For example, Timothy Treadwell, who was devoured by grizzly bears in Alaska, was looking for something in people that he couldn’t find and began to believe he was a bear. Similarly, Siegfried, the Las Vegas entertainer who was mauled by a tiger, was subjecting his animal to perform in front of a huge audience every night. Richardson believes that if you recognize when an animal is upset and leave it alone, the likelihood of a negative outcome is greatly reduced.
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Growing up in the woods, Richardson has always had a love for animals. He was dubbed “The Bird Man of Orange Grove” for his passion for South Africa’s birds, and he studied zoology at university. He started his career in physiotherapy and happened to be treating a businessman who was in need of rehabilitation after being attacked by a lion. This encounter sparked Richardson’s fascination with lions, and he has since dedicated his life to changing the world’s perception of these magnificent creatures.
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In conclusion, Kevin Richardson, The Lion Whisperer, is redefining how lions are best managed. He is proof that with mutual respect, lions can be gentle giants and not mindless man-eaters. His unique method of communication with lions is not without its dangers, but with 15 years of experience, he has shown that it is possible to coexist peacefully with these magnificent creatures.
