Well-known conservationist West Mathewson was mauled to death by one of his own white lionesses at his Lion Tree Top Lodge in Limpopo.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the incident occurred around 8.30am on Wednesday.
According to reports, Mathewson, 68, went for his usual walk with the lions when one of them became aggressive towards another, but then turned on Mathewson, injuring his groin, which led to severe bleeding.
Police and emergency services declared him dead on the scene.