LION KILLED AFTER ATTACKING OWNER!

The lion who attacked his owner at a private game reserve near Thabazimbi in Limpopo at the weekend was killed in the incident.

Michael Hodge, 72, the owner of Marakele Predator Centre "bottle-raised" Shamba the lion since birth. Hodge broke his jaw and sustained injuries to his neck during the attack.

Family spokesperson Bernadette Maguire told News24 on Wednesday morning that Hodge was recovering in hospital, but he was still traumatised after the incident.

"He is very upset about the loss of Shamba and I think he is trying to put up a brave face, but he is really battling to come to terms [with] what has happened," Maguire said.

Maguire said Hodge was able to walk for the first time since the incident with the aid of a physiotherapist at Milpark hospital.

"The prognosis is looking good, provided that his infection stays under control. His wounds have been left open in order to ensure that the infection does not set into his body."

She said the family was relieved that Hodge was "okay", however, they were also traumatised by the loss of Shamba.

The family owned Shamba for 10 years.

In a short video clip, Hodge is seen walking behind the lion in a den.