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LION
King of the Jungle
TAU (Tswana) - The so called "King of the Jungle" actually lives mainly on plains and is a rather lazy animal, leaving most of the hunting to the Lioness. Life tends to be made up of short bursts of intense activity followed by long periods of relaxation. Lions are distinctly sociable, living in prides of 3-30 members. Central to the pride is the Lioness but the Lion dominates.
Territory is marked with urine and droppings and is vigorously defended against any take over bids - either from within or without. The roar of the Lion so characteristic of the African night, is part of territorial warning. Lions feed mainly on warm-blooded animals, small or very large. Small prey are dealt with by a single swipe of a powerful paw.
Larger animals are brought down by having their necks twisted and broken by a powerful wrench. They may also be suffocated by the grip across the larynx. Prey may be adult buffalo or giraffe or unprotected young rhino, elephant or hippo. Even if he did not make the kill, the Lion will dominate at feeding. Any careless or over-enthusiastic cub may be maimed or killed if it gets in the way.
DETAIL
(Panthera leo) Adult male mass 230kg. Shoulder height 1,2m. Males have a mane of long hair. Rare albinistic animal occur - White Lions of Timbavati. Extremely rare black lions have been recorded.
