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Lion Classification and Evolution
The Lion is one of the largest, strongest and powerful felines in the world second only in size to the Siberian Tiger. They are the largest cats on the African continent and are unique among felines in a number of ways but the biggest difference between Lions and other cats is that they are incredibly sociable animals that live together in family groups known as prides. Lions are also part of the big cat family meaning that both males and females are able to roar. Despite having once roamed across much of Africa and even parts of Europe and Asia, the world's remaining Lion population now resides in sub-Saharan Africa. However, with Lion numbers thought to have dropped by 30% over the past 20 years these enormous predators are sadly becoming more and more vulnerable in their decreasing natural environment.
Lion Anatomy and Appearance
Lions have a short coat of tawny or golden fur with a long tail that has
a tuft of longer fur at the end. The markings on their coats are much
fainter than the bold stripes and spots displayed on other felines which
helps these large carnivores in going unseen when stalking prey in the long grasses. The Lion is one of the largest cats
in the world with males being taller and heavier than females and
displaying a mane of long hair around their faces (in fact, it is the
only case in the feline world where males and females actually look
different). Thought to be connected with testosterone levels, the mane
of the male Lion ranges from blonde, to red, brown and black in colour
and covers their head, neck and chest. Lions have strong and powerful
jaws that contain 30 teeth in total which includes four fang-like
canines and four carnassial teeth that are perfectly designed for
slicing through flesh.
Lion Distribution and Habitat
Historically, Lions would have been found throughout much of Africa and even in parts of Europe and Asia
as well. Today however, they have been pushed into more isolated
pockets of their once vast natural range with the remaining African Lion
population now only found in countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
There is also still a small population of Asiatic Lions found
inhabiting a remote part of the Gir Forest in India where there are an
estimated 300 individuals remaining. Despite their dwindling numbers,
Lions are actually incredibly adaptable animals
that can and will inhabit very dry climates as they get most of the
moisture they need from their food. They prefer areas of open woodland,
scrub and long grasslands where there is not only plenty over cover but also a wide variety of prey. They are only not found in areas of rainforest or far into deserts |
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