A lion, a wild animal belonging to the cat family, celebrated for its strength and ferocity. The large head, flashing eye and heavy mane, characteristic of the male, give it a regal appearance that is reflected in the name king of beasts.
11 Facts About Lions:
- The voice of the creature is a mighty roar, and is probably the loudest call among animals.
- By nature the lion is less ferocious than the tiger, and is disinclined to attack man, but when angered or driven by hunger, it becomes fierce and terrible; when roused is a most dangerous adversary.
- The lion is one of the largest members of the cat family, sometimes reaching a height of three feet and a weight of 500 pounds.
- It is distinguished by its tawny or yellow color, tufted tail and, in the male, full flowing mane.
- When the male is three years old its mane begins to grow; at six or seven years the lion is full grown, and at about twenty-two it is feeble and decrepit.
- Lions make their lairs in hidden eaves, dense thickets, brushwood and other secluded places.
- They hunt their prey at night, attacking antelopes, zebras and other wild animals, if these are available; in regions where wild game is scarce they seize camels, cattle, ponies, goats, etc.
- The young are born in the spring, and the whelps, usually three in number, begin life with their eyes open.
- They are given tender care by both parents until able to take care of themselves.
- Lions are found at large only in Africa and parts of Central and Western Asia, but long years ago they were common in Europe and in many parts of Asia.
- Today there are none in Asia Minor, Egypt or Arabia, and there are few left in India.
More About Lions From The Web:
- Best Lion Moments - BBC Earth
- Part of The Lion Pride - Dean Schneider living with lions
- The Man-eaters of Tsavo - Big Cats
Antique illustration of Senegal Lions guarding prey after a kill. |
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