Lion

This was, without a doubt, one of the most incredible wildlife experiences of my life. I saw several lions on my previous trip to South Africa -- and a few more on this second visit -- but none waked within five feet of my open, driver's-side window before plopping down in the road! would have liked to include the mane above his face, but I was too get more of him. I pried the 1.4x teleconverter off my 600mm lens, but this was still full frame. It was amazing to stare into this predators eyes from such close range. I'm not sure how well it would have gone for me if I wasn't sheltered in the vehicle!

Near Satara Rest Camp, Kruger National Park, South Africa, 11/1/22
Canon 600mm f/4 IS II on EOS R5
1/320 at f/7.1, ISO 3200