
This pride of lions were spotted having picked an unusual spot for a group nap as they were seen sprawled over the branches of a large tree.

However, while the adult lionesses took the opportunity to have a rest, their cubs were keener on playtime, and could be seen scampering over the lower limbs of the tree.

While lions aren't natural tree dwellers, the 15-strong pride is well known in the area of central Serengeti, Tanzania, for climbing up into the foliage.

Family tree: A pride of lions were spotted sprawled out on the branches of a large tree in central Serengeti, Tanzania

Nap time: While some of the lions appeared to take the opportunity to catch up on their sleep, some of the younger ones seemed more keen on playing on the branches

The amazing sight was captured n Lake Manyara National Park by photographer Gina Owen, 33, who is from Britain but now lives in Zanzibar.

Ms Owen revealed that several lion prides in the national park have a fondness for heights, as the area is renowned for its climbing lions.

'This pride in particular are known to spend a lot of time in the trees, which is very rare as lions are not natural tree dwellers - but the area around the natural park is known for this behaviour,' Ms Owen said.

'I was lucky enough to see the same pride three times in a couple of days. Seeing them in the wild on the Serengeti is especially good.'

Amazing spot: The lions were photographer by Gina Owen, 33, during a visit to the Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania

It's a fur tree: According to Ms Owen, this particular pride is known for spending time in the tree tops in the park

Time for a nap: Several of the members of the pride joined in the collective nap on the branches

'The younger members of the pride were very funny. While on the ground, they kept trying to climb on their mother's back.

'But when they eventually got up into the tree, the cubs already in the tree would do their best to thwart their siblings climbing efforts in an attempt to play.

'It was very similar to how domestic cats will play with each other. The mums all lazed around in the higher branches - they were clearly worn out from all the activity.'

I'm coming up: One of the younger lions lent a helping paw as one of its siblings climber up the tree trunk

Popular sight: While lions are not natural tree dwellers the Lake Manyara National Park is renowned for its climbing lions



