For the first few weeks of life, the world is a frightening place. Danger lurks around every corner. It pays to be alert. Whether predator or prey. Any day might be your last. The race is on to grow up fast- for even the largest animals are vulnerable to attack.

If young animals survive until adulthood, the chances for survival are greatly increased - but many challenges face them before they can strike out on their own. Some have months to grow-up; other have decades – but all, have lots to learn along the way. From getting to grips with their bodies and learning to feed themselves, to practicing fighting skills and learning how to form friendships. There are many hurdles along the way, but every small success could mean the difference between life and death.

For every species on earth the right to mate is the purpose of life. Passing on your genes to the next generation is every animal’s legacy. But it’s not easy, it can be a struggle to find a mate and then a fight to gain access. Only the strongest and most determined will win at Luangwa’s mating game.