Characteristic features Differently than the leopard and cheetah the lion has no conspicuous spots. A fully-grown African lion can reach a shoulder height of 1,20m and length of 2,40 to 3m. A female lion can reach a weight of up to 125kg and the male lion a remarkable weight of 200kg. The impressive mane of the male lion gets darker by age.
Special characteristics Lions are the only cats living in packs. Related female lions with their children form the main circle.
Hunting Lions hunt in packs, keeping in mind that the females are mainly the ones, which are responsible for the hunting. A single lioness attacks its prey at the flank and drives it towards the other members of the pack. The male lions are the ones which dine first only after them being satisfied the lioness and her young cubs may eat the remaining prey. The preferred hunting time is during dawn or dusk.
Food To satisfy a whole pack mainly big animals like gnus, zebras, antelopes or buffalos are being hunted. Even warthogs and elephant babies are sometimes chosen. Often the prey of cheetahs, wild dogs, leopards or hyenas serves as their meal.
Life expectancy Lions can reach an age of 15-30 years.
