Wildlife photographer shares adorable images of big cats and their cubs playing, fighting and cuddling in Africa

A series of incredible images captured by a wildlife photographer show big cats and their cubs playing, fighting and cuddling.

Nick Dale, 55, has captured leopards, lionesses, pumas and cheetahs and their babies in countries across Africa such as Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana.

The footage shows the animals surrounding and climbing on their mothers, and in some shots they appear to be hugging their mothers.

Nick, who started photographing wild cats in 2013, said: ‘Lions sleep 20 to 22 hours a day, so it’s always a good opportunity for action shots! The cubs can also be very cute, and cute can be bought.

‘I have been taking pictures of lions and other cats since my first trip to Africa in 2013 and I will continue as long as I can.

‘There is often action in different places and sometimes you need the help of other guests to let you know when something fun is happening!

‘I’ve taken hundreds, possibly even thousands of photos like this over the years, but you’re never quite sure what you’re going to get, so there’s a lot of luck involved.’

Mischievous cubs love to jump on their parents in a heartwarming display of joy

Two cheetah cubs love snuggling up to their mother

A cheetah cub plays with its mother

A lion cub appears to be reprimanded by its mother

A feisty lion cub is gently put in place by his mother

A mischievous lion cub eagerly seeks playtime with his mother

This lioness doesn’t seem particularly excited as her playful cubs try to perform some energetic antics

A lioness juggles the playful energy of her three lively cubs

A heartwarming moment between a lioness and her cubs in the wild

A feisty cheetah cub shows his mischievous side

A cheetah enjoys a moment of relaxation with her three lively cubs

Goran Anastasovski has photographed images of deer, lambs, lemurs, monkeys and goats cuddling close to their mothers

A cheeky buck hugs his mothers

A lamb cuddles up to its mother