An African curly-maned lion has become an internet sensation! Naturally curly hair like it's been permed at a hair salon; netizens praise: He's practically a Greek god!

 

This photo was taken by pilot and wildlife photographer Kambiz Cameo Pourghanad in Kenya's Masai Mara Reserve. The male lion, named Nzuri-M6, is different from other male lions; its mane is thick and curly, with even a tuft of hair on its forehead, making it look like it just stepped out of a hair salon. Lying on the grassland, it exudes a unique charm.

In his post, Purgnad stated that Nzuri is the son of Olepolos, the sixth of seven male lions, and originally belonged to the Topi pride. He wrote, "Remember my words, Nzuri is, and will be, one of the most handsome lions in the Masai Mara." He went further, stating that its status will be on par with savanna star lions such as Bon Jovi, King Moya, and Blondie, making it one of the most dazzling kings in all of Africa.

The photos quickly sparked discussion online, with netizens commenting, "So cute!", "His hairstyle is from another world!", "Look at that curly hair, I'm in love!", "Looks like a Greek god descended!", "Handsome guy! We have a movie star here!" Some prayed for Nzuri, hoping he and his brothers would be safe from human threats. "He and his brothers are so beautiful, I hope humans never touch them. The more beautiful a creature, the more humans want to put a price tag on it. I hope this brave boy will always be safe."

According to Moneycontrol, experts speculate that Nzuri's unique mane is likely the result of a combination of genetics, high humidity, and natural drying after rain. Rain soaks the mane, and sunlight and breezes allow the hair to dry naturally, creating this wavy texture. In other words, Nzuri possesses the most beautiful "natural curls" on the African savanna.

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A post shared by Kambiz Cameo Pourghanad (@silent_whispers.photography)