Bunga is Kion's best friend, a member of the Lion Guard and the protagonist The Bunga Movies 1, 2 and 3. His specialty is his bravery.
Appearance
Bunga's body is shown to be of a good build, and has a gray-blue fur all over, with a darker patch across his belly. He has muscular forelegs and a round face. His claws are more of a more dark royal blue color. Lining the undersides of his forelegs is pure white fur. This fur color is also present across his back, and continues all the way up to his forehead.
His eyes are very dark blue, with thick black eyebrows. His inner ears are pink, and his nose is dark magenta. Three slightly darker freckles can be found on either side of his face. He also appears to have a slight overbite. He has large front teeth with a prominent gap in between them.
His Mark of the Guard can be found on his left foreleg just like the other members, in a brighter tint than the rest of his coat.
Personality
Bunga is a brave honey badger who is usually seen leaping head first into action. As such, he is Kion's opposite in many ways. Bunga frequently leaps into danger, often without considering the consequences and improvising to the best of his ability. Because of this, it can sometimes take him time to grasp the seriousness of a situation. Bunga is aware of his courage, which he proved when he told Kion why he thought he should be a member of the Lion Guard. Adventurous and fun-loving, Bunga is willing to disobey rules and put himself at risk. He rarely exhibits seriousness and frequently jokes and teases. Director Howy Parkinsdescribed Bunga as a "strong comedic character". However, Bunga can also be a fierce fighter, willingly taking on cobras, hyenas, vultures, and jackals. He generally has little respect for royalty, even going so far as to call Simba, the king, a big scaredy-cat, but occasionally displays great amounts of respect for them. When kidnapped by hyenas, Bunga refused to give in, and, even when outnumbered, still shows immense bravery. This conveys that he is, as stated by Kiara, "brave bordering on stupid".
He is a strong believer in "zuka zama"- "pop up and dive in". He uses this phrase quite frequently, and is eager to share what it means. However, though this philosophy differs greatly from that of his uncles', he has also used the phrase "hakuna matata" multiple times and even sang the song Hakuna Matata when he was feeling downhearted. He has a tendency to jump to conclusions before engaging in further thought, and believes in quick and easy solutions. Bunga also appears to be rather full of himself, and has been shown complimenting his flavor and his voice. He likes companionship, and loneliness does not suit him.He does his best to please his uncles, Timon and Pumbaa. Despite his shortcomings, Bunga is loyal to Kion and the Lion Guard, and is always ready to help those in need. He is proud to be a member, and cares for all of his friends, though he is occasionally insensitive about their feelings. In addition to his confidence in his own skills, he is also very positive about what the Lion Guard can take on.
Bunga appears to have a knowledge of different fighting techniques, as he listed each move used by Puaand Makuu during the Mashindano. In this same thing, he appeared to greatly enjoy watching the fight, despite the solemn expressions of the Guard and the royal family. He also has a neglect for hygiene; in this way, he is very different from his egret friend Ono.
History
Prior to The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar
When Bunga was very young, he didn't know his parents, as far as he can remember. One day, while rummaging for grubs, Bunga spotted Timon and Pumbaa searching for Utamu. He noticed several similarities between himself and the two of them, and began to follow them. Pumbaa almost immediately wanted to keep him, but it was only after Bunga climbed to the top of a rotten tree for the sake of finding utamu grubs for Timon that Timon allowed Bunga to stay. They called him Bunga due to his foolish bravery.
The Lion Guard: Return of the Roar
The story begins by introducing the audience to Bunga and his best friend Kion. The two are playing on Pride Rock, where Kion's father, the ruler of the Pride Lands, Simba, is teaching his daughter Kiara about her future as queen of the Pride Lands. Kion and Bunga's game of Baobab Ball get in the way of his lesson, much to his sister's irritation. Bunga interrupts Kion's apology to his father, saying that Kion could not handle his pass. The two begin to fight over the baobab. After Simba points out the importance of the lessons, the two take their fun into the Pride Lands to avoid further disturbances. Bunga hurls himself off of the top of Pride Rock, curling himself into a ball and landing in a nearby tree, safe from harm.
The two continue their playing their game of baobab across the plains, but soon the baobab rolls off into the Outlands. Kion is hesitant to go down, since his father strictly prohibited him from venturing there. Bunga, on the other hand, has no fear of the Outlands, and gladly leaps down after calling Simba a scaredy-cat. However, shortly after reclaiming the fruit, two hyenas- Cheezi and Chungu- grab Bunga, and plan to hand him over to their leader, Janja, for his lunch.
Bunga shows little fear and even engages in a stare down with Cheezi, showing agitation when Chungu holds him back. However, when Cheezi finally stops taunting Kion and prepares to go "bring Janja his lunch", Bunga shows fright and repeats the last word. Worried for his friend's safety, Kion lets loose a huge roar, which leaves the hyenas in shock, and gives Bunga a chance to climb back to safety. Bunga is curious as to how his friend produced such an amazing roar, and Kion admits that he doesn't know how.
Meanwhile, Simba and Rafiki overhear the Roar. Simba at first does not believe that his son is ready, with him being a cub still. Kion and Bunga then arrive back at Pride Rock. Rafiki explains that Kion's roar was the Roar of the Elders, and that the Great Kings of the Past roared with him when he used it. Bunga responds to this, announcing that he saw lions in the sky. Simba and Rafiki lead them both to a secret lair hidden within Pride Rock- The Lair of the Lion Guard. At first, Bunga is confused. He queries, "It's a bunch of vines?" before Rafiki pulls back the plants to reveal the Lair. After Simba explains to his son that it is now his turn to lead the Lion Guard, Bunga grows very excited. He exclaims that it is "un-bunga-lievable" before exiting the Lair.
Kion doesn't hesitate to begin his mission, and immediately selects his friend Bunga, claiming that he doesn't know anyone braver than him. Bunga rushes to tell his uncles, Timon and Pumbaa and gets caught up with Kiara and her friends, Tiifu and Zuri, along the way. When Zuri falls off of a log, Bunga declares that he will save her, but is halted by Kiara. At first, Timon and Pumbaa are uncertain, so Bunga pleads with them. He admits that the Lion Guard is not hakuna matata, but instead zuka zama. Tiifu asks about zuka zama, and Bunga sings a song about it to explain. He then is able to convince Timon and Pumbaa to let him join the Guard.
Meanwhile, Kion has assembled a group which he believes best fit the criteria for being a member of the Lion Guard, with Bunga still confirmed as his first member. This includes Fuli the cheetah, Beshtethe hippopotamus and Ono the egret. Fuli wishes to see the fiercest member, to which Bunga encourages his friend to show her the Roar. Kion is hesitant, as he does not wish to abuse his power like Scar. However, when he attempts to use it just for this occasion, all he can manage is a tiny squeak. Simba then arrives to see the new Guard, but soon tells Kion that the Lion Guard has always been made of lions. Kion leaves the group to do some soul searching.
Just then, Bunga calls Kion, and tells him that the hyenas are attacking the herd of gazelles. Kion and Bunga then rush off to find the rest of the Lion Guard. Ono, Fuli and Beshte watch on, as Ono explains that Mzingo is telling the hyenas which one to attack next. They soon realize that the hyenas, having already killed two gazelles, are hunting for sport. Kion soon arrives, having heard their words, and tells them that he doesn't care if they're not all lions, and that this was the Lion Guard for him. Although Bunga is quick to leap in, he is stopped by Kion, who has a plan. The lion then goes against his father's wishes and places his paw on each of his friend's shoulders, to give them the Mark of the Guard. Bunga is happy to receive his Mark and puts a paw over it for a moment. Together, they rush into action.
The Guard quietly make their way down to the gazelles' grazing grounds, before launching a surprise attack with Kion at the front of the group. With Ono taking care of Mzingo, Bunga, Beshte and Fuli focus on the hyenas. Bunga leaps onto Chungu and covers his eyes. The hyenas soon start to make a desperate retreat. Simba, Nala, Tiifu and Rafiki arrive just in time to see the new Lion Guard chase the hyenas away.
Although they assume that their work is done, it turns out that Kion's sister Kiara is still in danger. Tiifu points out that the herd is charging right for Kiara, who is hiding behind a rock. She slips and wounds her paw, leaving everyone concerned. Bunga has an idea, and asks Fuli to get him close. Ono then scouts ahead, and, when close enough, Bunga leaps onto the rock protecting Kiara. He turns around, and lets loose a large fart, which causes the gazelles to part ways. Kiara thanks Bunga, and returns to her parents.
Never Judge a Hyena by Its Spots
Janja, Cheezi and Chungu are out chasing Oryxes, until the Lion Guard arrive to scare them off. Kion tells his friends to calm the herd down, whilst he tackles the hyenas personally. After Bunga and Beshte calm them down, Fuli notices that Kion is taking a long time, and asks Ono to check out what's taking him so long. He soon sees Kion in trouble, holding onto the log of the tree that snapped off with him, heading downstream. Ono quickly alerts the rest of the Lion Guard, and they run down to find Kion holding on for dear life. Bunga, desperate to save his friend, leaps in, but Beshte soon jumps in to take him back to land as the current proves to be too strong. Kion eventually manages to paddle to safety and onto land, just as his friends catch up on the other side. Kion confirms that he's okay. With no choice thanks to the fast current, Kion tells everyone to meet him at Flat Ridge Rock. Bunga tells everyone that he knows where that is, and leads Fuli and Beshte off. Kion tells Ono to go with them, just in case Bunga doesn't really know the way.
Bunga starts to lead the group through a forest, though Fuli doubts that he knows the way. After taking the team through a series of dead ends, and almost disturbing Ushari, Fuli's suspicions are confirmed when Bunga finally admits that they're lost.
Soon, Ono has led Bunga, Beshte and Fuli out of the forest, and near a herd of zebras. They soon realise that none of them know where to go, much to Fuli's chagrin. As the group talk amongst themselves, one of the zebras,Thurston, approaches them, and asks what the problem is. Bunga explains that they're looking for Flat Ridge Rock, and Thurston asks where it is specifically. They find out that Thurston does not actually know where Flat Ridge Rock, and Beshte suggests that maybe Mbeya knows where to find Flat Ridge Rock. He tells them that usually at this time of the day, Mbeya is hanging out at the Watering Hole, and Fuli asks Ono to guide them there, grabbing Bunga before he walks the other way.
Later, Beshte locates Mbeya, and the two are talking in the Watering Hole. Fuli questions what's taking so long, and Bunga mentions that Beshte loves to talk. Ono flies over to remind Beshte that Kion needs them, and the hippo says goodbye to Mbeya. Bunga and Fuli are eager the know what he said, but it turns out that Beshte forgot to ask, and returns, leaving them slightly irritated.
Bunga, Fuli, Beshte and Ono wade through a river, with Bunga snacking on the surrounding flies. As they reach the end, Ono notices the rock which appears to be Flat Ridge Rock. Fuli says that she'll lead, and dashes off, leaving Bunga and the others behind. Fuli awaits her friends at Flat Ridge Rock, though the other members are exhausted, having had to run to catch up with her. Bunga then realises where they are, and that he himself has actually been there. He also knew a shortcut, which annoys his friends. Fuli, Beshte, Bunga and Ono soon hear a commotion in the Outlands. The group make their way down to see Jasiri near Kion. Kion declares that she is a friend, and Bunga leans in and reminds Kion that she is a hyena. Kion explains that she helped him, and the Guard eases up. Bunga and the Lion Guard soon make their way back to Flat Ridge Rock. As Kion says farewell to Jasiri, Bunga and the Lion Guard return to the Pride Lands, with Kion racing to catch up with them.
The Rise of Makuu
Bunga and the Lion Guard are seen running through the Pride Lands in response to a cry for help. When they discover the animal in need to be a hyrax stuck in a thorn bush. Bunga tries to get him out, but Fuli reminds him that he would be dragging the hyrax through the bush and hurting him in the process. Bunga then suggests that Kion uses the Roar of the Elders to free the trapped animal, but Fuli shoots down this plan as well, alerting him to the question of what would happen to the hyrax if Kion used the Roar. Kion tells them that they can simply pull the thorns aside. Bunga complies, and Fuli darts through the bush and grabs the hyrax.
After the hyrax is freed, however, he is eaten by Ushari the cobra. Bunga protests and grabs Ushari, forcing him to spit out his meal. When Ushari tells Bunga that the hyrax was his lunch, Bunga says it was "to go" and flings Ushari away. The hyrax gratefully attempts to hug Bunga, but immediately flees, screeching, due to Bunga's repulsive odor. Despite this, Bunga takes it as a compliment. Beshte meanwhile is covered in flowers, which have caused him to become sticky, much to Ono's worry. As Beshte mentions that he needs a bath, Ono points out that Bunga could use one too. Beshte suggests a dip in Big Springs.
After Beshte shows the Lion Guard how the fish clean him, Bunga tries to get the fish to clean him off as well. However, the fish are just as disgusted by Bunga's scent as the hyrax. Bunga then watches as thecrocodiles arrive, and the young crocodile Makuu challenges the elderly Pua for his leadership of the float by way of Mashindano. Pua accepts the challenge.
After the Guard leaves Big Springs, Ono attempts to talk with Bunga and fix his odor problem. Bunga's adoptive uncles, Timon and Pumbaa, protest, the the four of them sing Don't Make a Stinktogether. This results in a group of insects swarming over Bunga, much to Ono's disapproval. Ono tells Bunga that he'll find a solution eventually.
At the Mashindano, Bunga watches eagerly. He mistakenly exclaims that Pua gets one point after Pua hits Makuu with his tail, and Beshte corrects him, explaining that there are no points in Mashindano, and that the crocodiles have to keep fighting until one of them surrenders. As the fight continues, Bunga calls out the names of the moves that the crocodiles are using against each other.
True to his word, Ono is showing Bunga another way of cleaning himself when Kiara arrives in the Lair of the Lion Guard, worried. She explains that Zazu reported animals in the Pride Lands out of order. When Ono investigates, he discovers all of the Pride Landers in the wrong places, with the crocodiles being at the bottom of the chaos, having moved into Big Springs. When the Lion Guard goes to talk to Makuu, he refuses to lead his float away without a fight. Bunga and the rest of the Lion Guard are up to it, but Kion refuses. They return to Pride Rock to find it full of baboons. While Kion is speaking to Kiara, Ono declares that he has a solution to Bunga's odor problem. He tells Bunga to roll in mint leaves, as well as eat one, and Bunga is immediately cured of his stench. After talking to his grandfather, Kion reveals that he has a solution to defeat Makuu. He plans to show Makuu the Roar of the Elders so Makuu knows what he would be up against if it came to a fight. Beshte tells him the Grove of Trees is vacant of animals, and Kion decides that he will direct his Roar there. But when the Lion Guard sweeps the grove to check for any animals, they discover the hyrax in a tree, peacefully eating. Bunga tries to drive the hyrax down with his smell, but due to the mint leaves, he no longer stinks. Eventually Bunga brings the hyrax down in tow, and he and Fuli clear out so that Kion can roar without anyone getting hurt. Once everything has been sorted out, Ono apologizes to Bunga for trying to rid him of his stink, admitting that it has its uses. Bunga replies with "Hakuna Matata", saying simply that he knows it'll wear off soon. When the hyrax climbs upon his back, he laughs and adds that the sooner, the better. The rest of the Guard laughs with him.
Bunga the Wise
The Lion Guard are out in a storm, trying to save some baboons in a tree that is gradually breaking. They don't wish to come down since they're dry in the tree, but Beshte is struggling to keep the tree from tumbling down the nearby cliff edge. Kion has an idea, and Bunga leaps onto the tree and farts in their general direction. Most of the baboons then retreat back down, and Bunga drags the final baboon down to the ground, just as the tree falls over the cliff.
With the storm subsided, the Lion Guard decide to rest nearby. Kion leaves the group briefly to seek advice from his grandfather. When Kion returns to the guard, he sees a large stream of water heading straight for them. He wakes them up, and asks Ono to check out what's going on. He informs him that Lake Kaziwa is too full, causing a leak which is getting worse. Kion realises that they need to do something, and Bunga has the idea of blocking the water with rocks.
Other animals arrive and compliment Bunga on his good idea. Kion, however, is not so sure that the quick fix is a good idea. A small amount of water leaks out, and Bunga is quick to stick a stick in it. The animals once again are impressed, though Fuli has doubts. Rafiki overhears this nearby, and mentions that honey badgers are the smartest animals, before his baobab fruits fall from his hands. Bunga becomes excited, and runs off to tell his uncles, with the Lion Guard chasing after him, not staying around to hear the rest of the wise baboon's words.
The Lion Guard lose track of Bunga, though soon catch up to him atHakuna Matata Falls. Timon and Pumbaa explain that Bunga is giving out advice, and Bunga joins them as they sing Bunga the Wise Some animals start asking for help, and Bunga proceeds to give them terrible advice. Timon and Pumbaa quickly tell everyone to get back in line, refusing anymore freebies. A mongoose gives Timon a bug, and he's ready to let him in, until the Lion Guard tell him that they need to speak with Bunga. Annoyed, Timon allows them access, although Beshte is too big to fit through and instead waits outside.
They speak with Bunga, who reminds them of Rafiki's words, and that he is now the smartest and bravest animal in the Pride Lands, and that he plans on giving all the animals advice. Timon then ushers the Lion Guard out, since other animals are waiting for Bunga's advice.
Later, the Lion Guard encounter a herd of animals singing Make Way for Bunga the Wise. They run over, to find out that Bunga is taking his advice all over the Pride Lands. Kion urges his best friend to stop, as his terrible advice is causing chaos in the Pride Lands. As they're talking, the temporary dam bursts and the animals run. Kion tells the Lion Guard to follow him, as he rushes to save some nearby animals. Although Timon and Pumbaa want Bunga to run, he remembers his responsibilities, and instead follows them. A baby elephant follows Bunga.
The Lion Guard race across the plains, and end up entering an area surrounded by rocks. As Ono sees one route leading outside where the water can follow, he tells them left, though soon realises that he has sent them to a dead end. The other animals look to Bunga for advice, but he confesses that Kion knows best. Kion tells everyone to get behind him, and performs the Roar of the Elders, which pushes the water back and out the other way, with rocks falling down to secure their safety.
The animals and the Lion Guard are finally able to relax, near a waterfall that was created when Kion used his roar. Bunga finds the perfect spot to relax, though Rafiki warns him not to. As Bunga reminds him of what he said, Rafiki finishes his phrase from earlier, though not before Bunga is mid-way of a leap into the flowers. He lands in a muddy pool hidden by the flowers, and realizes that maybe he is not the smartest. Relaxing, he remarks that he doesn't mind not being the smartest animal after all.
Can't Wait to be Queen
The Lion Guard sans Ono have heard the news - Kiara is now the queen. Bunga see's it as a positive event, although his best friend Kion is still a little annoyed, reminding his friends that the position is temporary. They watch as Ono then flies over to Pride Rock, much to their confusion. Once they arrive, Ono is cleaning himself in preparation for Kiara's appearance, explaining that he has been asked to give her the morning report. Tiifu and Zuri appear, announcing Kiara's presence. Bunga bows down, and whilst Tiifu and Zuri believe it is appropriate behavior, Kiara thinks otherwise. She approaches Ono, though Kion expresses his anger at taking him away from the Lion Guard. After hearing the morning report from Ono, Kiara becomes worried that the bees may sting the eland herd and send them into chaos. Kion is about to leave, when Kiara asks if the Lion Guard can divert the eland away from the bees nest. He reluctantly agrees, and Bunga bows once more to the queen. The Lion Guard find the bees, and Ono confirms that the eland herd are on their way. Mzingo watches nearby, hearing Kion's issue with his sister. Since his sister couldn't tell him how to handle the situation, as opposed to moving the eland away from the bees as Kiara stated, he believes that the best solution is to move the bees. This plan backfires, and the bees chase after the Lion Guard, whilst Bunga eats some honey from a fallen beehive, blissfully unaware of the chaos surrounding him. The Lion Guard return to Pride Rock covered in bee stings (with the exception of Bunga), and Kion insists that it wasn't a total disaster, though Kiara disbelieves him. Bunga snacks on a bee, whilst the rest of the Guard explain what happened to the queen. As they leave, Bunga once again bows to Kiara. Kion later gathers the Lion Guard again, after his sister travels into the Outlands alone to meet with Janja. They venture there themselves, and Ono tracks down Kiara for them. Kion runs off ahead to defend Kiara against Janja, and although Janja is okay with the odds, Bunga and the rest of the Lion Guard join the two lion cubs, marking the numbers as equal. Janja makes a quick retreat, and his clan flees back into the depths of the Outlands, leaving the Lion Guard safe once again, and free to return home.
Eye of the Beholder
The Lion Guard are out in the middle of a wildebeest stampede, trying to locate Janja and the hyenas. Ono is scouting above, and soon locates Cheezi and Chungu about to prey on a young wildebeest. He calls for Bunga and Beshte to sort out the problem, to which they do. Kion meanwhile manages to defeat Janja, who takes his hyena companions back to the Outlands. Kion orders Ono to make certain that they leave the Pride Lands, whilst they watch from the ground. Bunga and the rest of the Guard then witness Ono's injury, and together they take him back to the Lair of the Lion Guard. Rafiki is painting in The Lair of the Lion Guard, when the Guard arrive. After fixing him up, Bunga tries to find words of encouragement for his wounded friend, though he lacks the skills to do so in a good manner. As Fuli notices the paintings of the Lion Guards around the room, Bunga becomes particularly excited as he sees his own painting amongst the others. When Kion asks Ono what he thinks, Bunga points out that Ono can't see properly, which causes him to fly off. Bunga and the Guard chase after him outside. However, Ono crash lands, and Bunga follows the rest of the Lion Guard's words by making sure that Ono rests up. Back in the Lair, Kion is posing dramatically for Rafiki, who is still painting. Still not happy with the outcome, Bunga suggests that Kion poses 'more like a lion', and attempts to move his body around for a more powerful pose. Rafiki becomes increasingly annoyed, and Bunga then suggests painting him instead, launching himself into a variety of dynamic poses until a coconut shell covers his head. Rafiki ushers everyone out and begins to meditate, stating that he needs some peace. His peace is disturbed almost immediately much to his disappointment, as Beshte comes charging in with news for the Lion Guard. He explains that his friend Kulu's cousin overheard a buffalo talking about something his sister saw earlier in the day at the canyon near Chakula Plains, which turns out to be Janja and the hyenas at the edge, overlooking the plains. With the zebra herd grazing nearby Kion then orders the Lion Guard out, sans Ono. The Guard finally arrive canyon, and, as they pass, the hyenas push the large stack of rocks in their path. The Guard are about to turn around and return to take the longer path, but Janja pushes a bigger rock nearby, which causes a minor landslide to block the other way. Beshte manages to hold up a steep rock, which the rest of the Guard hide under. Bunga shows much enthusiasm to do it all over again, though Kion disagrees.Janja, Cheezi and Chungu then taunt the Guard before they leave, to cause mayhem with the zebra. Bunga urges Kion to use the roar, though Kion refuses, pointing out that the rocks will likely hit the zebra. Bunga suggests the other rock, though Fuli reminds him that it's the long way, and by that time it will be too late. Ono then arrives, and Kion has an idea. Bunga is soon seen peeking through the rocks, although it turns out that he can't actually see anything. Ono returns, and the Guard are ordered to stand behind Kion as he uses the Roar of the Elders to blast the rocks away, which land on the hyenas. The Guard are pleased to see the hyenas withdrawing back into the Outlands once again.
Meanwhile, back at the Lair Rafiki has finally finished his portrait. Bunga and the Lion Guard watch as the pictures re-assemble together to form a pyramid-like structure. Rafiki closes by saying that this Lion Guard is better off together.
The Kupatana Celebration
Simba and the Lion Guard are relaxing in the Pride Lands on the day of Kupatana, watching a choir of animals rehearse the song Our Kupatana Community. Bunga is very eager for Kupatana, mentioning that it is the biggest party in the Pride Lands. Kion corrects his friend, reminding him that Kupatana isn't just a party, and Simba agrees, pointing out how it is the only day in which the animals of the Pride Lands gather in peace. Their conversation is interrupted by distressed yipping sounds from the distance, and Ono flies up to see what the problem is. He reports a jackal pup being chased by Janja's clan, and Simba encourages Kion to save the pup. Kion decides to do so, and Bunga calls out his catchphrase as the Lion Guard races to the rescue.
By the time the Guard arrives in the Outlands, Janja's clan has cornered the pup. Just as Janja lunges for him, Kion intervenes, ordering Janja to leave the pup alone. Bunga reminds Janja that it's the day of Kupatana, which appears to please Janja. Janja then tells the Lion Guard that they're welcome to the pup, and he and his clan retreat further into the Outlands. The pup introduces himself as Dogoand thanks the Lion Guard enthusiastically, jumping up and placing his front paws on Bunga briefly as he darts around in circles. He recalls that the Lion Guard just "looked at the hyenas, and they ran away", and Bunga proudly tells him that the Guard has that effect on "no-goods". Dogo asks if he can return to the Pride Lands with the Guard, and Kion permits it. After the Lion Guard returns to the Pride Lands, Bunga and Beshte tell Dogo about Kupatana. Fuli protests, but Kion says that it might be good for Dogo to learn about Kupatana, which pleases Bunga and Beshte. The Guard takes Dogo to a hillside and tells him that he may stay there. Bunga mentions that the hillside is a perfect spot, and Beshte agrees. The Guard split up to continue patrol. Bunga and Beshte head to the Watering Hole, where they discover Dogo sleeping in front of the den of Muhanga the aardvark. Bunga is reluctant to wake him, commenting on how cute Dogo is, but Beshte points out that the den is occupied, and that Dogo can't rest there. He wakes Dogo and reminds him of his place on the hillside, and Dogo trots away. Bunga and Beshte then encounter another jackal pup in front of a second aardvark den. They mistake him for Dogo and order him away once more. Bunga comments "Weird . . ." as they continue on patrol, and immediately encounter another pup sleeping in front of an aardvark den. Bunga firmly tells the pup that he cannot stay in an aardvark den, but suddenly, many more jackal pups emerge from the dens. Just then, a pair of aardvarks arrive. Beshte assures them that he and Bunga will take care of the situation, and Bunga agrees, then uncertainly asks how. Not knowing what to do, the two yell for Kion. When Kion arrives, he finds Bunga and Beshte standing between the aardvarks and the jackal pups. He attempts to locate Dogo, but is instead greeted by Dogo's mother, Reirei, with Dogo's father Goigoi at her side. As Kion tries to sort out the situation, the Guard hears a call for help. Ono reports that Mbeya the rhino is stuck in the mud at Lake Matope, and the Guard goes to save him, Kion quickly ordering Rairai to stay away from the aardvarks' dens and food before he leaves. After the Guard saves Mbeya, they discover that the jackals have caused even more trouble. Kion sorts things out with Reirei, even permitting her to come to the Kupatana Celebration, and the Guard goes to clean the mud off of themselves. Soon, the time of Kupatana arrives. Bunga and the Guard watch the animal choir perform, and Bunga quietly asks Ono if Dogo and his family have arrived yet. Ono replies that he can't see them, but just as the celebration begins, the jackal family attacks, causing chaos. The Pride Landers stand together per Kion and Simba's advice as the Lion Guard rounds up the jackals. Bunga grabs Dogo by the tail, declaring that he no longer finds Dogo cute.
The jackals are soon driven away, and Kion apologizes to his father for letting the jackals in. Simba forgives his son for his mistake, but Kion then says that he supposes the celebration is over. Bunga protests, and begins to eat the fallen baobab flowers, declaring that it is the best Kupatana ever.
Fuli's New Family
The Lion Guard are rounding up some buffaloes to dry ground. One buffalo becomes stuck in the mud, and Kion calls for Beshte and Bunga to sort it out. They do so, though the force of Beshte's push causes Bunga to fall far back and land in a bush. He leaps out after being bitten by something, and when the Lion Guard regroup, they discover it to be Ushari. Ono is fearful, warning them not to get bitten. Bunga reveals his bite, and Beshte questions why the cobra bit Bunga, to which Ushari replies that it was because he landed on his head. Ono explains that the cobra's bite is venomous, and Bunga acts dramatic. Ono believes that the poison has hit his system, and that they'll have to suck it out. When Bunga offers them his behind, they decide to try Rafiki instead. They meet him at the Tree of Life, where Timon and Pumbaa have already been informed of the bad news by Ono. They are heartbroken, as Bunga continues to act dramatically as he believes that he is dying. Timon and Pumbaa can't see what Rafiki can do, and when he arrives, Rafiki tells them just what he's going to do: nothing. They are shocked to hear this, though Bunga is certain that his end is near, collapsing and grabbing a flower to rest on his stomach. As Timon and Pumbaa start crying, Rafiki reveals that Bunga is actually immune. He questions the meaning, and Ono explains. The Guard are a little annoyed, particularly Fuli, who honestly believed that he was dying. Timon and Pumbaa are overjoyed that he is safe, and invite everyone back to Hakuna Matata Falls for a feast. Timon refuses to let Fuli eat alone, claiming that friends never leave other friends to eat alone. She hesitates, though joins them regardless. At Hakuna Matata Falls, Timon and Pumbaa are snuggling up to Fuli. They invite Bunga over, who is messing around with a crocodile by standing in his mouth after he opens it himself. Fuli dashes across and saves Bunga, who doesn't care because he is 'immune'. Annoyed at his antics, Fuli leaves. Bunga is offered some bugs, though since they're not poisonous, he turns them down, leaving Timon and Pumbaa to finish the bugs themselves. Later in the day, Bunga is bouncing a Porcupine on his head whilst Kion watches. Bunga still believes he is immune to everything, though soon drops the porcupine by mistake. Kion notices Fuli hunting a gazelle, and interrupts her. He invites her to his family's hunt, and Fuli is genuinely excited. They invite Bunga, though he wishes to find something else to do. They leave, and although Bunga is about to bounce the porcupine on his head for the hundredth time, the porcupine tells him to 'go play in a volcano'. Bunga takes this literally, and ignores the porcupine's call for him to return. Soon, Bunga arrives at the Outlands, still believing to be immune to everything. Cheezi notices him and soon calls for Janja (who is receiving a back scratch from Chungu). They run back to see Bunga laying in a geyser, one which even Chungu comments as being too hot for him to go near. Although confused, Janja doesn't care, since Bunga is warming up for them in his opinion. When Bunga gets out, Janja blocks him from walking further, though Bunga has no fear. He informs the hyenas that he is immune rather loudly, and Fuli soon hears Bunga's voice in the Outlands. She immediately realises that something is wrong and dashes over. Luckily for Bunga, the hyenas are too busy questioning what immune means, and before Janja can eat him, Fuli arrives to save him. Bunga, however, is agitated, since things were just about to get fun. The rock they're on breaks, and falls into the lava, floating downstream. Bunga grabs onto Fuli, and finally agrees with his uncles on her softness. Meanwhile, the Lion Guard are searching for Fuli. Ono sees her and Bunga floating down the lava, and tells them to hurry. The rock they're on starts to break away, and a hot rock lands on Bunga's tail which causes him pain. Fuli knocks it off, but Bunga realises that he isn't actually immune to everything. As the rock breaks further, he hops onto Fuli for support. As they take a short dip down a steep path, the hyenas are waiting for them on either side. Kion, Ono and Beshte arrive just in time, and, after Bunga admits that he's not immune, Beshte knocks over a dead tree for them to land on. Fuli and Bunga land on the tree, but Janja and the hyenas leap onto the tree themselves, trying to catch up to them. Fuli isn't worried, and speeds off the other end with Bunga, leaving the hyenas trapped on the fiery tree.
Back in the Pride Lands, Bunga is still snuggling Fuli, who promptly stops so that her baggage can fall off. They decide to cool off at the Watering Hole, but Kion remembers that Fuli likes to be alone and that it's okay if she'd rather not. Fuli explains that whilst she likes to be alone while hunting, she does in fact enjoy hanging out with them, and that she considers them her family. She allows them to cuddle with her and the group share a hearty hug together.
The Search for Utamu
Meanwhile, the Lion Guard After Ono scouts out a buffalo herd and reports them safe, Beshte wonders aloud what made them move from their original grazing grounds. Bunga dismisses this and begins to leave, but Ono stops him and realizes that the buffalo are standing on a geyser, to Bunga's confusion. The ground rumbles, and though Bunga at first mistakes this noise for Beshte's stomach rumbling, Ono realizes that the geyser is about to blow. The Guard begins to round up the buffalo, but Fuli dashes ahead of them and accomplishes this on her own, impressing Bunga and the Guard. They are soon alerted to another cry for help, this time by several galagos who are dangling from a tree branch. Fuli dashes off and saves them on her own, and Bunga gets them off of her back for her. Meanwhile, the Lion Guard As the Guard walks back home, Fuli says that she still feels as though the galagos are on her back, and asks Bunga if he's sure that he got them all. Bunga assures her that he did and changes the subject, noticing that the water has reached the trees near Mapema Rock. He explains to the others that this means it's the peak of the rainy season, meaning that the Utamu grubs will be coming out. He begins to inform the others of their tastiness, but is interrupted by another cry for help. Ono reports a serval had attempted to leap across Big Ravine, and Fuli dashes off to save him. Bunga and the others go around the ravine to discover that Fuli had managed to successfully save the serval. Kion insists that Fuli rests for a while, and Bunga decides to go find the Utamu grubs. As he begins his search, Bunga begins singing. He stops suddenly, causing Beshte to bump into him, and explains that they need to follow the dung. Noticing their confusion, Ono explains that they're dung beetle larvae, and that the dung beetles will lead them to their home. They are surprised that Bunga knew that, but soon get right on track. As they slowly follow the dung beetles, Bunga is asked what is so special about the grubs. Bunga explains that the Utamu were the reason he met Timon and Pumbaa, and goes into further detail about his backstory. He enters a flashback as he describes finding Timon and Pumbaa when he was younger and climbing up a dead tree to fetch the Utamu for them. Shifting back to present, Bunga explains that it's now a tradition for him to reach the Utamu grubs, and that he doesn't want to let his uncles down. The Guard realizes that the dung beetles are now gone, but Bunga sees the tree he was looking for up ahead, and dashes off to reach it. Having found the tree with the grubs, Bunga begins to scale it, though Kion is concerned that the dead tree won't hold him. After a branch breaks off, the team breathe a sigh of relief as Bunga has already made it to the next branch. However, the tree starts to bend as Bunga approaches the branch containing the grubs. Kion orders Beshte and Ono to help keep the tree stable. However, Ono then sees the circling vultures in the distance, and informs Kion, who calls the trio back. Bunga takes another step, positive he can reach the grubs. However, the branch snaps and Ono pushes him off before he falls into the narrow ravine below. Beshte catches him, but Bunga is upset. Kion apologises, but points out that they need to see what the vultures are up to. They leave to see what the vultures are up to, and discover that the vultures are attacking Fuli. They battle the vultures together, with Bunga curling into a ball and rolling forcefully into a vulture to defeat him. Kion uses the Roar to drive the vultures away, and Fuli thanks the Guard, but notices that Bunga looks disappointed. Bunga explains that he is upset because he wasn't able to get the Utamu, but Beshte and Fuli reassure them. Together, the Guard heads over to Hakuna Matata Falls. Bunga returns to his uncles empty handed. Timon and Pumbaa explain to him that the only real reason they have Utamu grubs is to celebrate the day they met him. The three of them share a hug, and Timon then reveals that they managed to get the grubs this year themselves anyway - because a branch containing them had fallen on top of them. Timon, Pumbaa and Bunga celebrate by eating their Utamu.
Follow That Hippo!
Bunga and the Guard hear several cries about a hyena attack, and soon arrive on the scene. They surround an area of shaking grass, and Kion orders the hyenas to show themselves. Kambuni and Gumbareveal themselves, begging not to be hurt. They explain that they were only playing Lion Guard, and that it was Mtoto's idea. After the Pride Landers are informed that it was a false alarm, Kion questions the young animals about their game. They explain that they take turns being a member of the Lion Guard, and Bunga eagerly asks who plays as him. He is disheartened to discover that it is simply whoever is last. Kion explains to them that Janja and his hyenas are currently somewhere in the Pride Lands, and the Guard soon heads off for some training.
The first stage of training is an obstacle course. Beshte arrives slightly later than the others and admits that he brought Mtoto along. Kion announces that the first obstacle is a boulder jump. Bunga easily completes this obstacle, but on the second obstacle, a pool of shallow water, he overestimates its depth and attempts to dive in. He hits the ground hard and notes that the water was deeper than he thought it would be.
Kion then decides to try stealth training, and Bunga is excited by this, and recalls that this course of training is how they practice sneaking up on and surrounding bad guys. He tells Mtoto that he always aces this one, and notes that Kion will never see him coming before starting. However, he ends up jumping on Kion, saying that he became tired of being stealthy. Beshte rushes to the others in a panic, explaining that he can't find Mtoto. Mtoto announces his presence from atop a tall rock, but trips and falls. Beshte moves under him, and Mtoto bounces off, landing on Bunga. Kion decides that it time for Mtoto to head home, and Beshte decides to walk with him.
The next course of training is a race. Bunga is up against Fuli, and he gleefully runs forward. When he reaches the end, he at first believes that he beat Fuli, but Ono tells him that he did not. Kion asks Ono to look for hyenas, and to keep an eye out for Beshte while he's at it, seeing as Beshte has not yet returned. When Ono rejoins them, he explains that he did not see Beshte, and the Guard goes to search for their friend. Mtoto's friends tell them that Beshte went to save Mtoto from the hyenas. Ono flies up to locate them, and discovers that they are being confronted by both crocodiles and hyenas.
Bunga and the Guard go to rescue their friend, and Bunga knocks Janja into the water. Beshte and Mtoto are able to escape, and the crocodiles give chase the Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu. Fuli points out that they'd stand a better chance if they got out of the water, and Bunga says that he won't be telling them that and laughs with the others.
The Call of the Drongo
The Lion Guard is alerted by a hare, a rodent, and Muhangus that Makuu, Goigoi, and Janja are causing trouble in the Pride Lands. Kion sends Bunga and Beshte to go and find Makuu. Bunga leaps out of the grass, announcing to Makuu that he and Beshte and coming to get him, but discovers that Makuu is nowhere to be found. Bunga suggests that perhaps Makuu heard them and left, and the rodent that Makuu was said to disturb finds that her lunch was stolen in her absence. Bunga and Beshte return to Kion, reporting that they did not locate Makuu. The others had not found who they were searching for either, and Bunga suggests that the three villains heard them coming and ran off. Kion doubts this, explaining that he could not even find hyena tracks, and Bunga says that he doesn't think he and Beshte spotted any crocodile tracks either. As the Guard and the three Pride Landers discuss the issue, they hear the sound of hyena laughter, and the Guard and goes to see what's going on. They meet a drongo along the way, who introduces himself as Tamaa and points in the direction in which the hyenas went. As the Guard rushes away in the direction that Tamaa pointed, Ono suddenly flies in front of them, stopping them, and circles back. The rest of the Guard follows, and they return to Tamaa, who they see and hear mimicking the sound of Janja's voice to scare off a hyrax. Bunga is impressed by Tamaa's accuracy, but the rest of the Guard are displeased. Tamaa sings the song Bird of a Thousand Voices to further explain his talent, and Bunga is once again impressed by Tamaa's talent. He requests and imitation of his own voice, and when Kion says his name disapprovingly, Bunga modifies his request, telling Tamaa to imitate Kion first, then himself, but Fuli orders him to focus. Suddenly, the Guard hears the sound of hyena laughter once again, and Ono reports that he can see Janja and his crew attacking a herd of impalas. The Guard goes to sort things out, but Bunga comments to Tamaa that he wishes he could have imitated him, as Bunga will now never know what his own voice sounds like. Kion is quick to order the hyenas out of the Pride Lands, but the Guard is later approached by Thurston, who claims that they need to go to the Outlands, as they are the only safe place to be. Bunga protests, and Kion talks to Thurston, who reports that he heard Kion's voice telling the impalas to go to the Outlands. The Lion Guard heads for the Outlands, and along the way, they hear Bunga's voice being shouted from the direction in which they are headed. Bunga is puzzled by this, and Kion declares that it is Tamaa's doing. Bunga pauses and comments that he sounded heroic before running to catch up with the others. They arrive in the Outlands, where they discover Janja, Cheezi, and Chungu confronting Tamaa, and Kion sees to it that the hyenas leave. Bunga and the Guard return to the Pride Lands, where Tamaa promises to no longer imitate others unless it's for good. Bunga once again requests an imitation of himself, and Tamaa complies, shouting out Bunga's catchphrase as he flies away. Bunga comments that he really does "have a great voice", then realizes the Guard has already left the scene and runs after them to catch up.
Paintings and Predictions
The Lion Guard find a distressed gazelle. To help the gazelle, Kion asks Beshte to move the rock whilst Bunga pulls the hoof out. They do so, but the force sends Bunga and the gazelle rolling down a steep slope. Before they fall off the edge, Kion and Bunga rescue the gazelle, and Bunga believes that the whole thing was pretty fun. The gazelle gesticulates his disagreement. As the storm erupts, the Lion Guard return to The Lair of the Lion Guard to escape the tempest. As Bunga messes around by swinging on vines, he notices Rafiki painting in the lair. He marvels as Rafiki uses his staff to make the paintings come to life and, when Rafiki leaves, uses the staff for his own amusement. He watches a painting of some zebras run towards a rock formation, narrowly missing the top rock as they run towards it. As he's doing so, Ono reports that there's a zebra stampede, and Bunga leaves the staff behind as he races to catch up with the Guard as they leave. At the scene, the Guard take immediate action to stop the zebras from running over a family of hyraxes. Bunga notices that a set of rocks in the distances bears a striking resemblance to the ones he saw in Rafiki's painting. He becomes concerned and voices that concern to Beshte, who helps him leap onto Thurston's head as the honey badger attempts to halt the zebra herd. Sure enough, the rock falls down and almost lands directly on top of the zebras. After the herd had calmed, Beshte asks Bunga how he knew that would happen. Bunga offers to show him back in the lair, leaving Kion to question what caused the distress. Back in the lair, Rafiki has run out of mango paint and leaves his staff behind. Bunga quickly borrows the staff again to show Beshte how he knew about the falling rock. Beshte is amazed, and soon notices another painting which looks suspiciously like Kion, hanging on a tree branch. Bunga starts the animation, but stops it as Kion begins to fall, fearful of what happens next. They decide to make sure that the event never takes place, and rush off, with Bunga spilling some paint as they pass Rafiki along the way. Although Bunga pleads with Kion to believe him, Kion does not. As Ono reports a hyena problem, Kion informs Bunga that there's no time for it, and they leave. After their arrival, Bunga is told to take care of Cheezi and Chungu, though he witnesses Kion leaping onto a tree branch nearby. Worried, Bunga leaps onto him, causing them both to fall on Janja as he passes below. The hyenas retreat, and Kion questions what Bunga was doing. Before he gets an answer, the honey badger dashes over to Beshte and the pair discuss the event. Since Bunga was the one who pushed him, the pair begin to wonder if it wasn't the right tree. Although glad that there are no trees back in the lair, Ono flies down to report that three zebra are missing, and that he has located them on the other side of Maji Baridi Falls. The Guard set off. Bunga is terrified to see so many trees around them. He mistakes Ushari for a tree branch, and accidentally upsets him as he attempts to save Kion from tripping over him. Fuli becomes suspicious of their actions, and Bunga explains everything to her along the way. Noticing that Kion is near another tree branch, Fuli rushes in to save him, as Bunga and Beshte rush to catch up. They trip over a tree branch embedded in the ground and Kion becomes angry, though Ono announces that he has found the zebras and also knows a shortcut. Bunga makes an announcement of his own, that he knows as shorter shortcut than Ono's. Whilst swimming across a lake, Ono questions their behavior, as their shortcut is not actually a shortcut. After Ono is filled in, the Guard see Kion at another tree branch, and they make another attempt to 'rescue' him. This also fails, and Kion is once again angry at everyone. Although Bunga pleads with Kion to understand, the lion cub once again refuses the theory that Rafiki's paintings predict the future. After the zebras fall into the water, Kion sees a nearby branch and plans to use his Roar of the Elders to push the water back, much to his friends dismay. On his way back, Kion gives Bunga and the Guard a scare as he almost falls off, though he safely lands on the rocks nearby. They return to The Lair of the Lion Guard, where Rafiki explains that Bunga had been watching the zebra clip backwards. Bunga questions the painting of Kion, though Rafiki further explains that the painting is not of Kion, but of Nala's Father when he was a cub. He shows the Guard the full animation, which involves Nala's Father falling off the branch but being saved by the Lion Guard of his time. Rafiki does show a painting of Bunga which does predict the future, however. Bunga's enthusiasm is destroyed when it is revealed that he will be cleaning the mess he made. Rafiki hands Bunga some leaves to clean up with, and as he does his duty, Bunga comments that he preferred the other paintings. Rafiki and the Guard share a laugh as the honey badger continues to clean.
The Mbali Fields Migration
Ono calls to the Lion Guard, as a fight has broken out between a herd of gazelles and a herd of zebras. Bunga questions his eyesight, holding up two fingers and asking him to count. Ono dismisses his concerns, and leads the Guard down to the fight. Beshte recognises both herds, with the leader of the gazelles being Swala and the leader of the zebras being Muhimu. They slide down a slope as they attempt to stop the fight. Unfortunately, Bunga gets sat on by Muhimu as she fights, much to his annoyance. Nobody notices this though, as both herds continue to quarrel until Kion unleashes a roar, which grabs their attention. Both he and Beshte try to explain that the Pride Lands are for everyone, but Swala and Muhimu explain that the reason they're fighting is because there is only one patch of grass left for them to share between their herds. After Kion has spoken with his father, Bunga races back to the small patch of grass, announcing to the herds that the Lion Guard will be taking them across the Pride Lands to a new grazing ground, Mbali Fields. As he's racing around, he bumps into Muhimu who denies ever sitting on him during the fight, calling him a mongoose instead of a honey badger. She explains that she needs to reach the new grazing grounds as soon as possible, which slightly irks Bunga. Meanwhile, Ono has found a route to Mbali Fields, and reports to Kion accordingly. After Ono has explained his news, Kion announces to the two herds that he and the Guard will be leading them to Mbali Fields. Both herds are satisfied, and, along with Bunga, cheer for Kion. As the Guard keep everyone in check, the Trail to Hope begins, with everyone looking out for each other as they move across the Pride Lands. Eventually, they wind up in a canyon. The herds soon see Mbali Fields before them, and Muhimu cannot wait any longer. She and her herd rushes ahead down the canyon, which causes Swala and her herd to react competitively as they charge after them. The Lion Guard attempt to stop them, but a large pile of rocks plummets into the canyon, blocking the path to Mbali Fields. The rocks keep falling and almost hit Muhimu. Bunga leaps onto her just in time to rescue her from being hit by more rocks, and she is surprised that Bunga managed to rescue her, though still refers to him as the wrong species (a hedgehog). In the meantime, Kion realizes that their path is no longer going to work, and thus asks Ono to scout out a new pathway for them to continue their journey with. Ono returns with some disappointing news - that the only way to Mbali Fields is now going to involve a trip through the Outlands. As they make their way across, a storm erupts. Suddenly, a huge gush of water comes flooding through the canyon. Kion realises that it's a flash flood, and orders everyone to reach higher ground. As the Guard each start to save the straying animals, Bunga has saves a gazelle, but notices that Muhimu is floating away with the current. He leaps in and grabs her, though Muhimu has her doubts that he can save her, becoming a little aggressive as Bunga asks her to help him save her. Eventually, she starts paddling with Bunga, and he is able to help her reach safe grounds. She is grateful for his help, and notes that it's the second time he has saved her during the same day. She thanks him for his help, and finally admits that she did, in fact sit on him (to which Bunga replies that he knew that already). After the flood, Bunga shows concern for Kion who is depressed at the animal's lack of faith in his leadership. Bunga waits for him to return after a brief trip, cheering him on as he regains his confidence. Muhimu asks Bunga if he'll keep her safe during the rest of the journey, to which he agrees that he will do so. The herds enter the Outlands, but soon after, Muhimu enters labor. Kion sends Beshte, Fuli and Ono ahead and tells them to keep leading the herds whilst he and Bunga stay behind to help her give birth. Some of the zebras stay behind, as does Swala, to help them. Soon Muhimu gives birth to a son. However, he lets loose a loud bray, which draws Janja, Cheezi and Chungu's attention. Bunga tries to tell the newborn to be quiet, even though he understands that he probably won't be able to understand him. However, the three hyenas soon arrive and slide down the ridge, causing most of the zebras to scatter. Kion pleads with everyone to protect Muhimu and her newborn, knowing that mayhem is exactly what the hyenas want from them. After Muhimu orders them to, the zebras compose themselves, rushing back to Muhimu and her foal, defending them along with Kion, Bunga and Swala. At first Janja, Cheezi and Chungu taunt them, though they soon launch an attack. Bunga catches Cheezi, and pulls on his tail which confuses him greatly. Eventually, Bunga throws Cheezi into the other hyenas, just as Kion is finished with Chungu and Muhimu's Son has kicked back Janja. Muhimu is amazed that her son saved her life, and Bunga compliments him. The remaining animals finally make it to Mbali Fields, with everyone happy at last as Ono reports that the migration was a success. Bunga is especially happy, and runs off to play with Muhimu's boy as the Guard laugh in joy.
Bunga and the King
Bunga and the Lion Guard are assisting some Sable Antelopesthat had managed to get stuck in the mud, when a tremendous rumble alerts them to a new problem.Ono flies ahead, seeing a new sinkhole as well as Nala and Kiara beside it. Fuli insists that Kion go ahead whilst they clean up. Bunga soon becomes impatient with the antelopes, though is quick to leave the scene after Beshte lifts it out of the mud, anxious to catch up to Kion. When they finally reach him, without thinking, Bunga leaps over the sinkhole and plummets down, landing softly on Simba's mane. Simba is unimpressed to see Bunga (as well as having his mane tangled by the honey badger's fall), and despite Bunga's enthusiasm, points out that he cannot in fact rescue him from down there. Kion calls down asking if they're okay, to which Simba replies positively. After the sinkhole becomes larger, everyone back on ground start to organize a plan on how they can rescue Simba and Bunga. Meanwhile, Bunga makes a few suggestions on how to escape the sinkhole. He eventually decides to get a running start and leap back up the walls. This in turn causes more of the walls to collapse, and he and Simba become buried in more rocks. As everyone at the top start to worry, Ono swoops down to check on them. Lion and honey badger turn out to be fine, though Simba chides Bunga for acting without thinking. Simba insists that Nala and Kiara go ahead to the elephant concert, and as they leave, the Guard return with a giant log, tipping it into the sinkhole. Unfortunately for them, it hits the bottom and breaks into hundreds of tiny splinters.Bunga manages to find some bugs that were trapped within, and promptly snacks on them. He then notices a tunnel in the side of the sinkhole. Simba knows that it could possibly be the Nandembo Caverns, thus providing a way out. He calls to Kion, letting him know of this. Kion calls back that he will meet them at the entrance to the caverns, hopefully meeting up there instead. Kion and his friends leave the sinkhole area, as do Simba and Bunga as they enter the tunnels together. As Simba and Bunga traverse through the dark tunnel, Simba soon starts to become frustrated at Bunga's random route choices, since no consideration is being taken on which ones he chooses. Simba's annoyance with the honey badger soon causes an argument to erupt between the pair, with Simba roaring to get his point across. This ultimately causes a cave in, and their disputation escalates so much that they wander off in different directions. Soon after, Bunga slowly starts to cool down, hoping that Simba would return for him. When he mistakes some rocks for being Simba, he states 'no worries', which reminds him of his uncle's favorite song, which he begins to sing. As he is singing Hakuna Matata, Simba starts to hear his echoes and sings along with him. The two soon find each other in a clearing, and Bunga is surprised that he knows it. Simba explains that he was raised by Timon and Pumbaabefore he was, and that they used to sing it to him all the time when he was growing up. Bunga then realizes that it sort of meant that they were like brothers, to which Simba agrees with. As the two laugh softly, Simba laments on how Timon and Pumbaa could not be there to see them finally getting along. Meanwhile, Kion and the Guard have entered the tunnels, even managing to get Timon and Pumbaa involved. The pair cry over their lost cubs, though Bunga and Simba soon hear their echoing cries. They race across the caverns, following the voices until they find the source. A large chasm separates them, however. Simba, with Bunga on his back, copies Bunga's earlier idea, by running and leaping across whilst the pair yell Zuka Zama together. Kion is shocked to see that his father is finally getting along with Bunga, and the Guard are equally shocked to see Bunga riding atop the king. Timon and Pumbaa are relieved to see their kids back safe and sound, with Timon kissing Bunga repeatedly. Back at Mizimu Grove, the elephants finish their concert, with Kiara and Nala applauding their hard work. Just then, Simba arrives with Bunga, Timon, Pumbaa and the Lion Guard in tow, apologizing himself for his late arrival. Bunga causes confusion when he regards himself as 'brother to the king', and further confuses Kiara by telling her to call him 'uncle Bunga'. Nala questions what happened, though Simba brushes it off as being 'quite an adventure'. He thanks the herd for their patience, though since he missed it, he decides to sing a song dear to his family. Together, the royal family and the Lion Guard sing Hakuna Matata to Ma Tembo's herd, which delights them.
The Imaginary Okapi
Fuli and Kion join Bunga join Bunga and Ono after Fuli was spotted during a game of hide-and-seek. It is revealed that Kion found Bunga first, after he laughed at the lion as he passed by. After being questioned about Beshte's whereabouts, Kion calls over to him. The hippo removes his head from behind the rock, and joins the group. Fuli is reminded that it is her turn to seek, and Bunga declares himself as the world's fastest hider, leaping into a nearby bush despite Fuli not even having the chance to close her eyes.
Later, Fuli manages to sniff out Bunga in a log, startling him with a low growl. He questions why everyone finds him first, and Fuli mentions his smell having a large part in that. Bunga agrees, and joins Fuli as she notices Kion's tracks on the ground. After pursuing the tracks for a short while, Fuli halts, noticing another set of larger tracks next to Kion's. She stops the game, calling for Ono, Beshte and Kion to check them out. After a short deduction, it is agreed that they are leopard tracks. Once Ono locates the leopard, The Guard rush to the scene, and Kion orders the new face to leave the Pride Lands. He introduces himself as Makucha, and taunts the Guard, telling them that they will have to catch him first. Not even Fuli is able to catch up to him as he leaps across Big Ravine, leaving the Guard to watch the leopard escape on the other side. They voice their concerns to each other, since many of the Pride Landers are unaware that leopards are hunters. Kion suggests splitting up, when he realizes that Beshte is still absent from the group. With Bunga in the lead, they go searching for the final member of the Guard.
Bunga soon finds Beshte on a cliff. After calling down Ono, Beshte attempts to introduce them to his new friend who, unbeknownst to him, has been frightened off by Bunga's presence. Ono tells Beshte that he only saw him, and Beshte begins to describe Ajabu to them. However, neither Bunga nor Ono believe him, with Bunga urging him to return to the Guard. Disappointed, Beshte returns and apologizes for his absence. Kion explains the situation, and Beshte becomes concerned, having told Ajabu that he was safe from leopards in the Pride Lands.
Bunga assures him that Makucha will only be interested in 'real' animals, prompting Beshte to snap at Bunga, claiming him to be real. After Bunga asks where he is, Beshte decides to do a quick sweep to see if Ajabu is hiding nearby. Kion questions the hippo, and the honey badger informs Kion that he has an imaginary friend. Beshte refutes the statement, and Kion eventually reminds everyone of the situation at hand. Beshte agrees, and the Guard take off.
The Guard follow the tracks, though become lost as they enter the tall grass. Beshte claims to see him, and the Guard follow him. The hippo charges through a flamboyance of flamingos, which end up colliding with the rest of the Guard in their scattered movements. When Beshte finally arrives at the clearing, he is disheartened to find out that he is not there. When the Guard catches up, Beshte mentions that he actually thought he saw Ajabu. Bunga and Ono remind him that they haven't seen him yet, and when Beshte questions them, Bunga admits that he finds his friend to be 'unBungalievable'. Demoralised, Beshte leaves the group. Kion is slightly annoyed at Bunga, and asks why he and Ono don't believe him. Bunga and Ono establish their reasons, and Fuli decides to see if Kion believes Beshte, to which Kion responds with 'I do'. He points out that Beshte does not lie, and explicates his own reasons for believing him. Bunga admits that he never meant to hurt his feelings, and Ono decides that they should apologise, which Kion agrees with. Bunga and Ono approach the solitary hippo, and apologise. Beshte accepts their apology, and confirms that they were always friends when Bunga asks if they're friends again. Kion and Fuli arrive, reminding them of their mission. The Guard take off, desperate to find Makucha before he finds Ajabu.
The Lion Guard soon hear a cry about a leopard, and rush to investigate. They don't see the leopard, but Ajabu soon runs past and Bunga and Ono finally see the okapi. They are shocked to find out that he is, in fact, real. Although Beshte gripes slightly at their constant disbelief, he soon becomes glad that they finally witnessed the okapi for themselves. Kion notices that the leopard has also seen him, and watches Makucha rush past them. He leads the Guard away.
As Makucha attempts to pounce on the Guard, Bunga grasps his tail, preventing him from leaping away. He dangles the honey badger, hoping that he tastes better than he smells. The leopard eventually declares defeat as the entire Guard stands before him, and slinks away. Kion tells Bunga to let go of his tail, and Bunga orders Makucha not to come back. With the danger finally gone, Beshte introduces Ajabu to his friends. Ajabu expresses his gratitude, and is amazed in particular that honey badgers actually exist, as he never believed that something that looks and smells like Bunga could possibly be real. Bunga and Ajabu have a brief conversation, and then Beshte asks if he is planning on returning home, reminding him that Makucha will be waiting for him. Ajabu is uncertain what else he can do, and Kion has an idea.
At Pride Rock, Kion explains to his mother and father that Ajabu would like to stay in the Pride Lands. The King and Queen gladly offer their blessing, and Ajabu is welcomed as a new Pride Lander. As they leave Pride Rock together, Beshte asks what he's going to do next. Bunga suggests Hide and Seek. Ajabu agrees, and before they know it, he's hidden. Bunga compliments Ajabu on how good he is at the game, and Beshte laughs softly.
Too Many Termites
Bunga and the Lion Guard are called over by Muhanga and Muhangus, who report that their den have been invaded by hyenas. Bunga is exasperated, as the Guard has chased out hyenas every night of the week. He follows Kion to a ledge and watches as Kion uses the Roar of the Elders to drive away the so-called hyenas.
Later, in the Lair of the Lion Guard, Bunga notes that things have been fairly quiet since they drove away the hyenas as he eats a termite. Beshte reminds him that Kion did most of the work, and Bunga agrees, but notes that they had his back as he scoops more termites into his mouth. Fuli hopes that Bunga is done eating, but Bunga declares that he's not even close, and points out that there are termites everywhere. Bunga happily licks termites off of a stick Kion gives him, slurping loudly and thanking his friend. Ono flies in, reporting that a tree is falling down with the Mekundu Bats asleep inside. Bunga is doubtful when he discovers that Ono is afraid of bats, and the egret defends himself. Kion leads the Guard to help the bats, and after running back to grab a quick snack of termites, Bunga follows. After running across a log to get over a ravine, it shatters and falls, despite having held all of their weight before. Bunga suggests that it just got old, and they continue towards Mekundu Cliffs.
At the Cliffs, the group has to jump out of the way to avoid a falling branch. They try to awaken the bats, to no avail. Bunga pounds the tree, then peers inside. Spotting numerous termites, he declares that he's going in. He awakens the bats in time, but the tree collapses with him inside of it. He hears Fuli cry his name and emerges from the broken remains of the tree, eating some more termites. The Guard begins to question the number of termites in the Pride Lands, and Bunga reminds them that just because there are a lot of termites doesn't mean that there are too many. More trees collapse after his words, and he refutes his statement. Kion decides to consult Simba.
At Pride Rock, Bunga eats termites as Simba suggests that the Guard sees the aardwolves about the termite problem. He tells them that aardwolves like termites even more than Bunga, who declares, mouth full of termites, that such is thing is impossible. When Simba informs them that aardwolves like to inhabit empty aardvark dens, Bunga is amused by the irony of the situation, as they chased hyenas out of one a few days ago. Kion admits that he drove the aardwolves out of the Pride Lands thinking that they were hyenas, and Bunga remarks that he still thinks they are. It is decided that the Guard will find the aardwolves and return them to the Pride Lands.
In the Outlands, Bunga expresses his appreciation at his decision to eat some termites before they left, as the barren canyon network has none. Fuli wonders what the plan is once they find the aardwolves, and Bunga suggests sneaking up on them. Soon, feeling that tracking is taking to long, Bunga leaps onto a rock and slips to find himself surrounded by aardwolves. He greets them cordially, but they flee. When the Guard catches up, Bunga announces that he found their targets and points in the direction in which they're going. The group pursues the aardwolves, calling for them. Fuli tries to stop them, but they bowl her over. She informs the others that they didn't stop, and Bunga notes that they noticed and adds that the pack's actions were odd. Kion realizes that the aardwolves are afraid of them, which puzzles Bunga.
Ono then spots Mjomba running towards a cliff. Bunga orders the Guard to allow him to handle it, and tackles the aardwolf, pinning him to the ground. Mjomba demands to know what he's doing, and Bunga explains that he was saving his life, causing Mjomba to thank him. He agrees with Mjomba's statement that things would have been easier if they hadn't kicked the aardwolves out of the Pride Lands. When Mjomba asks if he looks like a hyena, Bunga feels that he does. Mjomba wants to know what's in it for him if he helps them find his pack, and Bunga informs him that the Pride Lands are overrun with termites. Mjomba is happy to hear this, and leads the Guard away.
They find the cave where the aardwolves are hiding, and Bunga decides that a good plan is for him to go in alone. Beshte stops him, and the Guard all protest against this idea, with Beshte assuring him that it's nothing personal. It is decided that Mjomba will go in, and the aardwolf is excited at the thought of the unlimited amount of termites awaiting him back home, causing Bunga to remind him that some of the termites are his, as it's never too early to call dibs.
The cave soon seals itself from the inside. Kion leads them closer. The Guard soon breaks into the cave, where jackals are preparing to eat the pack, and Bunga grabs a frantic Goigoi's tail to stop him from either fleeing or attacking the aardwolves. He assures Kion that Goigoi isn't going anywhere, and soon releases the jackal per the cub's command. Flipping out of the cave, Bunga traps the jackals in their own home, ordering them to stay in there, then marches away proudly.
Back in the Pride Lands, Bunga is feeling lethargic and upset. He tells Kion that he's fine, but admits to missing the termites. He feels that nothing can cheer him up until Ono brings in some termites that the aardwolves saved for him. Eating them, he declares that he feels better already, to the Guard's amusement.
The Trouble With Galagos
At Hakuna Matata Falls, the Lion Guard are happily relaxing, whilst Bunga performs a few dives for them. After using the 'splash-less triple spin-a-rama' dive, even Fuli approves. Despite this, she passes on Bunga's offer to be taught the same move. Before Bunga can continue, a group of galagos cry for help and accidentally knock Bunga down. Bunga falls into the water below, splashing an irritated Fuli whose ears become covered by two galagos. Bunga pulls himself to shore with a group of galagos stuck to his body, happy to see them. Beshte approaches Laini and asks her what's wrong, and she worriedly informs them that a leopard has moved into their tree. Fuli becomes riled at some galagos which have grasped onto her ears, and, after Bunga removes one, she kicks the other off herself. Bunga tells her that she didn't miss much, and that the galagos wanted to stay with them. Kion, however, disagrees, letting Laini down to the ground as he reminds her that they will be safer away from the leopard.
Just then, a cry for help emerges nearby. Ono scans the area and reveals a giraffe is stuck in a tree. Kion decides to save the giraffe first, and leads the Guard away to Ukuni Woods.
Once there, they see that Shingo has his neck trapped in the tree. He explains that he was trying to get the last of the leaves from the acacia tree, but as he extends his tongue again to reach them, it too, becomes trapped in the twigs.
Kion sends Bunga up to help out and he does so, freeing his tongue (after examining it and declaring it to be bumpy) and then freeing his neck. Just then, screams alert them to the galagos' presence, where the galagos once again stampede over to the Guard, grasping them in similar locations once more, and even ambushing Shingo in their panicked frenzy. Once again, Bunga is pleased to see them. When asked why they did not stay, Laini tells them how they heard a 'pfft' sound, followed by an awful smell. Bunga comments that it was likely his uncle Pumbaa, to which Ono agrees with. Whilst Kion is adamant about the galagos returning to Hakuna Matata Falls, they insist once again on joining the Lion Guard. Back at the galagos tree, the Lion Guard spot the sleeping leopard. The galagos are told to wait behind whilst they deal with the leopard. The Lion Guard approach the tree, and Kion orders the Guard to surround it for when the leopard wakes up. Kion gives the go ahead, and Ono startles the leopard, who drops down to the ground, growling intimidatingly at the Lion Guard. As the Guard approach, the leopard becomes jittery and wails loudly, pleading with the Guard not to hurt him. He explains that he thought they were baboons, which confuses Bunga. The leopard further explains that they were chasing him in his dream, introducing himself as [Badili]] the big, friendly leopard. When questioned why he kicked the galagos out of his home, he asks what they are with slight fear. When presented with the galagos, Badili frightens them away and it soon becomes apparent to the Guard that he is no threat to anyone. When asked about his own home, and Badili confirms that it's inMirihi Forest, where Ono recognises is from the Back Lands. Despite his attempts to stay, the Guard agree that he must return home, and they escort him back to Mirihi Forest.
The Lion Guard escort the leopard home, but not without him making many excuses along the way to delay his return. Badili assures him that there's nothing wrong and slinks away, thanking them for accompanying him. As he leaves, Bunga decides to check out a watering hole that Badili had mentioned, but Kion orders the Guard to continue following Badili in secret.
They spy through a bush, where Badili is cautiously scouring the area. Although Bunga is itching to leave, Kion is adamant about staying. They watch Badili scratch his claws on a nearby tree, when suddenly another leopard named Mapigano leaps down and roars, frightening Badili. They soon notice the new leopard is bullying Badili, and question why he does not stand up for himself. It soon becomes apparent that Badili is too scared to refute any of Mapigano's harsh words, and the Lion Guard decide to intervene. They Lion Guard intimidate Mapigano, who eventually decides to retreat after insulting Badili and claiming that they were 'friends'. When Mapigano leaves, Badili is excited and thanks the Lion Guard. He confesses that he was too scared to fight back, and the Guard understand. They leave Badili to settle back in his home. Soon, the Guard are back to their patrol in Embamba Canyon. Fuli is glad they don't have to deal with them anymore, even though Beshte and Bunga agree that they were cute. Bunga hears Laini's voice, and Ono confirms it as she rushes up to Kion. Sure enough, she informs them that Badili is back in their tree. Bunga is sceptical of her claim, finding it hard to believe that it could be Badili again, but it turns out to be true. The Lion Guard approach the sleeping leopard, and manage to get him down. Badili is glad to see the Lion Guard, and when asked what happened, he reveals that Mapigano returned. Badili asks if they can chase Mapigano away again, and although Bunga promises them that they will, Kion refuses, stating that they need to teach Badili how to stand up for himself, since Mapigano did not need a fight to run away. Badili reminds them that they're the Lion Guard, though he is reminded himself that Mapigano did not know that - all he saw where animals that would not back down. The Guard agree to teach Badili how to be more confident, with Bunga excitedly agreeing to show him how to be brave. Bunga also suggests that Ono can teach him to fly, before realising what he suggested. Badili eventually comes around to the idea. As they teach Badili how to Find Your Roar, Bunga leaps out and startles Badili. Instead of responding directly to Bunga, he chooses to run. After more training, Badili leaps out and startles Bunga instead, which they both laugh about. At the end of his training, a loud roar emerges from Badili's throat, impressing the Guard. Badili is finally ready, and thus they return to Mirihi Forest. Along the way, the Guard double check what Badili is to do, with Bunga asking what Badili will do if he tries to scare him. Badili responds clearly and confidently, that Mapigano isn't scary. When Badili walks towards his tree, Bunga confirms with Kion that they will be keeping an eye on him.
The Lion Guard watch from a bush as Badili stands up for himself, with Bunga declaring that he will be using one of Badili's lines. Unfortunately, Badili begins to break as Mapigano intimidates him, and the Guard become concerned. Badili eventually regains his focus, and ultimately manages to frighten Mapigano away, much to the Guard's delight. They congratulate Badili before returning home.
Instead of returning to Hakuna Matata Falls, Bunga decides to revisit the galagos. When the Guard catch up to him, he is snuggling with three galagos at the top of the tree. He casually drops down and snatchs Laini from the ground, offering her a hug. Laini comments that perhaps the leopard wasn't so bad after all, as the rest of the Guard laugh joyously.
Family
Friends
Trivia
- His catchphrase, Zuka Zama, means 'Pop up and dive in'.
- Bunga is commonly referred to as "Little B" by Beshte.
- Bunga's earlier design was very similar to his current one, but his fur was a paler, brighter shade of blue and his white fur stood up on end.
- Bunga is the second known animal to be adopted by Timon and Pumbaa, the first being Simba.