Do lions kill only when they are hungry?
Lions are opportunistic predators and will attempt to kill whenever the opportunity presents itself. Although they kill only to sustain themselves, they do occasionally kill much more than they can consume. This usually happens when the prey animals are in a weak and emaciated condition and unable to escape or offer resistance.
On some occasions during droughts, when prey animals concentrate in large numbers around the last remaining water holes, lions, particularly young individuals, have been seen to kill several head of prey in a herd.
During the severe drought of 1996, a pride of lions killed five adult and 10 young African buffalo from a starving herd in one locality near Punda Maria. Similarly, near Lower Sabie a pride of lions killed six buffalo from a herd.
More frequently asked questions on the Lion
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How much meat can a lion consume during one meal?
At what age are lions sexually mature?
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What is the distribution of lions in the Kruger Park?
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Do lions often become man eaters?
Why do some males have black manes?
When is the best time for spotting lion?
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How do lions kill their prey?
How far can the roar of a lion be heard?
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More frequently asked questions on: Mammals
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Is lion cub mortality high?
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Do lions have a social hierarchy?
Is there a way that one lion or lioness could avoid aggression from another?
Do lions eat carrion?
What does a Serval eat?
Where can Serval be found in the Kruger Park?
What are the leopards breeding habits?
How do Elephants Communicate?
Do lions hide during rainy weather?
What are the major physical features of the Vervet Monkey?
Are young adults expelled from the pride?
Are Klipspringers endangered?
What is the biggest animal killed by hyaenas?
What are the main physical features of the Lesser Bushbaby?
What does a Thick Tailed Bushbaby eat?
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Is it true that lions usually mate over a two to three day period?
What speed can a lion reach when charging?
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