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African Lion Reserve
Home to our two lion prides. Ever popular the lion is the symbol perhaps of everything African and a source of endless fascination. The lion houses where the lions sleep are out of sight behind the fence so they can be serviced without staff having to enter the reserve to do so. The double lock gates are operated remotely by staff in the watchtowers who can also see the rest of the reserve and act as an extra pair of eyes for the patrol driver. Our white lions of course are our pride and joy; the only pride in the UK which makes the cubs the first ever born in the country. The adults arrived here from South Africa as cubs themselves, underwent their 6mths. rabies quarantine at the park and emerged on show in the spring of 2004 – paradoxically on their first day out it snowed! Apart from the colour of their fur and skin caused by recessive genes these lions are just like any others - but what a difference it makes!
African Lion (Panthera leo)...
The African Lion, the king of beasts or lord of the jungle, has from the middle ages symbolized the ultimate in majesty and power, a reputation that has justifiably stood the test of time. Much feared and romanticised, unlike most felines it is a social animal living in prides of up to 18 animals.
It is in many ways a beast of contrasts. Capable of the utmost ferocity when defending cubs, either individually or with the help of other lionesses, from predators or male lions, yet displaying endearing tenderness whilst caring for the cubs themselves.
The lion is the largest of all the African carnivores and may grow up to an astonishing size of 3m long and 1m to the shoulder. Colour and body size differ very little between the African and Asian lion, but in both species only the males have a mane. The mane can vary in colour from black to tawny brown. A male will be around 18 months old before his mane normally starts growing.
It is quite usual for the lioness to hunt for food for the cubs and males. This is done by day - they will patiently wait near a watering hole in silence until ready to pounce. Favourite prey are zebra and antelope, but a hungry lion has been known to attack rhino and giraffe. However, the lion is the least bloodthirsty of the big cats and will usually only kill to eat.
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Help to pay for the care, feeding and general well-being of an animal for 12 months, plus you will also receive a special Adopt a Buddy Pack. |
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