23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Crossing Into New Territory

A lion steps carefully across the Mara River after leaving his mating partner, entering another male’s territory. Each rock he tests reflects the tension of the moment, pure raw instinct, risk, and quiet determination in the heart of the Masai Mara.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2025
Date Uploaded: 12.2025
Photo Location: Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Camera: NIKON Z 9
Copyright: © Riznad Hussain