Lion: 11 Facts

       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:

1. The voice of the creature is a mighty roar, and is probably the loudest call among animals.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. It is distinguished by its tawny or yellow color, tufted tail and, in the male, full flowing mane.
5. 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.
6. Lions make their lairs in hidden eaves, dense thickets, brushwood and other secluded places.
7. 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.
8. The young are born in the spring, and the whelps, usually three in number, begin life with their eyes open.
9. They are given tender care by both parents until able to take care of themselves.
10. 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.
11. 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.