Are wild animals capable of noble acts?

My dear friend, Carol, directed me to the link listed below.  We tend to agree that wild animals are capable of being protective of other species' cubs.   Please feel free to write in your comments below.
http://www.nbcnews.com/id/8305836/ns/world_news-africa/t/ethiopian-girl-reportedly-guarded-lions/#.VG9ckE3wvIU