The man adopted the raised a lionessand videotaped their warm relationship as they played openly together.

Valentin Gruner, 34, is of German descent but currently lives in the Modisa Wildlife Project on the outskirts of Jabong, Botswana.

Valentine himself created wildlife projects, after her mother stopped feeding her and has since raised her.

The video, released in mid-May, shows the couple playing together, smiling and laughing as they jump to their feet to hug Valentine.