| Line 43: |
Line 43: |
| | The '''lion''' is a large [[feline]]. Today restricted to [[Africa]] south of the [[Sahara]] and a small population in the [[Kathiawar]] peninsula of [[India]], historically lions were also found throughout the [[Middle East]], North Africa and in Southern [[Europe]]; hunting down the Nemean Lion was amongst the twelve labours of [[Hercules]]. | | The '''lion''' is a large [[feline]]. Today restricted to [[Africa]] south of the [[Sahara]] and a small population in the [[Kathiawar]] peninsula of [[India]], historically lions were also found throughout the [[Middle East]], North Africa and in Southern [[Europe]]; hunting down the Nemean Lion was amongst the twelve labours of [[Hercules]]. |
| | | | |
| − | Lions are unusual amongst felines for their social habits, typically living in small family groups called prides, and their [[sexual dimorphism]], the male lion being readily distinguished from the lioness by his [[mane]]. | + | Lions are unusual amongst felines for their social habits, typically living in small family groups called prides, and their [[sexual dimorphism]], the male lion being readily distinguished from the lioness by his larger size and distinctive [[mane]], although certain varieties of maneless lions have been known to exist. |
| | | | |
| − | Hunting in lion prides is typically done by the lionesses, often with some waiting in [[ambush]] while others drive prey in their direction. The male lions are generally the first to eat, though. | + | Hunting in lion prides is typically done by the lionesses, often with some waiting in [[ambush]] while others drive prey in their direction. The male lions are generally the first to eat, though. Lions are capable of hunting a wide range of potential prey, from animals as large as a [[water buffalo]] or [[yak]], to creatures as small as a [[rabbit]] or a [[lemur]]. They are known to feast on carrion as well as fresh meat. |
| | | | |
| − | Culturally, lions are usually associated with nobility and [[monarchy|kingship]], thanks to their laconic, regal air and fearsome predatory abilities. The lion is often colloquially known as 'king of the jungle', although lions do not in fact inhabit [[jungle]]s or [[rainforest]]s. | + | Culturally, lions are usually associated with nobility and [[monarchy|kingship]], thanks to their laconic, regal air and fearsome predatory abilities. The lion is often colloquially known as 'king of the jungle', although lions do not in fact inhabit [[jungle]]s or [[rainforest]]s, and are typically found on plains and savannas. |
| | | | |
| | == Man-eating lions == | | == Man-eating lions == |