The second largest cat species on Earth, lions live in the vast forests, bushland and grasslands of sub-Saharan Africa. Unlike other cats, lions are very social animals. They live in prides of about 30 lions. A pride consists of 12 related females, up to three males, and their offspring.
The group’s main hunters are lionesses. They are faster and smaller compared to men. However, since their targets are usually faster than them, they must work together to bring down their prey. The weaker, slower lioness pushes prey toward the center as it unfurls and forms a semicircle. The more powerful female then brings the animal down and slaughters it.
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The mortality rate of the cubs is 60-70% as they are prey to predators such as wild dogs. A video shows a lioness taking on a pack of wild dogs. We’re not sure if she’s protecting her cubs, or if the big cat is just out to survive and ambush.
While lions are top predators, African wild dogs and hyenas can surprise them. In fact, these types of animals often engage in group fights, which terrifies many animals, including lions. In group attacks, they outnumber lions and can tear lions to pieces.
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While the dingoes clucked in the video, the lioness didn’t take any of their fun business. They are known for their high-pitched “laugh,” a series of short, giggling-like sounds, much like hyenas. These sounds are usually made when they are in danger or under attack, rather than being associated with the canines at play.
Here’s what one viewer had to say about the annoying noises the critters make: “The jeers and relentless chirps they make as they attack are sure to drive opponents crazy.” Hyenas also make laughter-like noises when frustrated.
Another comment on the video noted: “The wild dogs didn’t stand a chance against any lions, but the lioness appeared to be old or injured.”
The lion knew he was outnumbered and had to fight back constantly. If the lion let her guard down for even a second, it could be the last thing she does. If you look closely, you can see that the wild dogs have been trying to attack her from behind. It’s actually not uncommon for a hyena to bite off a lion’s tail during such an encounter. Thankfully, that doesn’t happen here.
Although dingoes are usually prey, they can switch to hunter roles if they have at least six members hunting a lioness or male lion cub. While we’re not sure what’s going to happen to the big cat, it looks like she’s standing her ground.
next
- Watch This Mother Lioness Play With Her Grumpy Cub
- This Jackal Needs Glasses After Walking Next to a Lioness
- Watch a lioness defend her cubs against aggressive males
- Adult male lion shows lioness how to deal with aggressive hyena
I am broadly interested in how human activities influence the ability of wildlife to persist in the modified environments that we create.
Specifically, my research investigates how the configuration and composition of landscapes influence the movement and population dynamics of forest birds. Both natural and human-derived fragmenting of habitat can influence where birds settle, how they access the resources they need to survive and reproduce, and these factors in turn affect population demographics. Most recently, I have been studying the ability of individuals to move through and utilize forested areas which have been modified through timber harvest as they seek out resources for the breeding and postfledging phases. As well I am working in collaboration with Parks Canada scientists to examine in the influence of high density moose populations on forest bird communities in Gros Morne National Park. Many of my projects are conducted in collaboration or consultation with representatives of industry and government agencies, seeking to improve the management and sustainability of natural resource extraction.
