The Lion – Panthera leo

Lions are generally a social animal were they stay in prides which consists of females (lionesses) and young (cubs) or juveniles and are dominated by the male of the species. There can be a coalition between two males in one pride. If the male or males are killed or chased of by other males, infanticide occurs were the new males will kill off the predecessors cubs to bring the lionesses back into estrus, therefore being able to pass on his blood line. However single or pairs of lions are found which are generally old or young males either from being pushed out and ending a life or starting a life.

Because it is classed as a soft skin animal the legal minimum caliber in Zimbabwe is a 7mm, however do not underestimate the king of beasts.

Although the larger thick skinned animals like the elephant and rhino in their adult stage are not at great risk from lion, their young up to the sub-adult stage can fall prey. Cow elephant are very wary of lions and will usually take their young and run from lion.

A good indicator of a mature male is the amount of pigment or black coloring in the nose if it is possible to see that is. In areas were the manes grow well, if the ears are hidden within the main from a front on view then it is a good assumption that the lion is mature.