Habits
Unlike most members of the cat family, lions are social animals that live in prides, or family groups, of 20 to 30 individuals. Some prides include a single male, while others may have as many as four. Where there is more than one male, the males are most likely litter mates. Males are strongly territorial and will challenge intruders, and lionesses will fight off other females. Males will often fight until one lion is killed. The winner then takes over dominance of the territory, and of the entire pride. After several seasons with a pride, the male becomes restless, and may be disinterested in answering a challenge from a rival male. If he loses, the male will search for another pride to dominate. Old or injured lions who have escaped death after fighting, but who have lost their territory, often die trying to fend for themselves.
Food and Hunting
Lion hunt at dusk. They have excellent eyesight and can see well in the dark. The lionesses usually hunt for the entire pride. While the lion plays little or no part in the hunt, he always takes precedence at the kill, dragging the prey to the chosen spot, then gorging himself before the females and cubs can eat. Hunting is an organized event. During the dry season, when water is scarce, lions often lie in wait close to a waterhole, waiting for prey to come to drink. Lions prefer to hunt wildebeest and zebra, as these animals are slower and easier to catch than small antelopes and gazelles. When prey is scarce, lions eat almost anything, including carrion. Hunger may drive them to attack larger prey, including giraffe, buffalo, and even rhinoceros, hippoptamus, and young elephants.
Did you know?
A lion's territory is determined by the size of its pride and the availability of prey and water.
Lionesses are ferocious when defending their cubs. Several will act together to chase off a predator or an agressive male lion.
Lions kill only when they are hungry. Their prey can usually sense if the lions are out to kill, and if they are not, will often ignore lions wandering close by them.
The male lion's mane makes his body appear larger and more impressive than it really is, which helps to attract females at mating time and frightens off rivals.
Male lions take not interest in the rearing of the young, and, on occasion, may even try to kill them.
Distribution
Sub-Saharan Africa, and the Gir Forest of India. A small population once believed to have lived in a remote part of Iran is now thought to be extinct.
Size
Length: Males, 9 feet, of which 3 feet is tail; females are smaller.
Weight: 450-550 lbs.
Lifestyle
Habit: Sociable and territorial, living in family groups. Young males may life in bachelor groups.
Call: Lions roar to keep rivals out of their territory.
Lifespan: 10 years in the wild.
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