Lions Startled by Homeowner: Unexpected Encounter on South African Patio

In South Africa, a couple was surprised when they discovered a pride of six lions lounging on the patio of a property they were checking on.

David De Beer and his wife, Mariska, couldn’t believe their eyes as they came face-to-face with the big resting cats.

Initially, the lions seemed unfazed by the couple’s presence, but they were eventually startled by the sound of a closing door.

A video captured the moment as the lions retreated into the property garden in Hoedspruit.

A couple in South Africa was greeted by some unexpected visitors when they went to check on a property and found a family of lions sunning themselves on the deck. Source: Daily Mail

David, who owns the building firm Davon Construction, shared that they had visited his father’s house on the Leadwood Estate to inspect the property, which is currently on the market. To their surprise, it appeared someone had already “moved in.”

The footage attracted attention on social media, with users expressing admiration and envy for the couple’s unique encounter.

Some users, like Ross Goldsworthy, wished for a garden like that, while Shelley-Anne Dean humorously suggested the lions could serve as low-maintenance guard dogs.

David De Beer and his wife Mariska were shocked to find themselves face to face with six big cats that were lounging around on the patio. Pictured: Five of the lions on the deck of the property. Source: Daily Mail

The squatter lions didn’t seem phased by the couple at first but eventually padded off into the garden in the town of Hoedspruit. Source: Daily Mail

Devin Dawson sympathized with the couple, acknowledging the inconvenience of the situation.

The property is part of the Leadwood Big Game Estate, where homes can sell for less than $124 436.

The estate spans 5,500 hectares (13,590 acres) of pristine bushveld, providing ample roaming space for big cats between Kruger National Park and Blyde River Canyon.