Ndau lion

The lion is the largest of the African carnivores. It differs from all other cats in that the male posssses a heavy mane, which protects the head and neck from the sharp claws of rivals during combat. Lions are found in prides, ranging from a family of six to a pride of twenty or more. Adults are tawny in colour, but all cubs have dark spots. They inhabit savannah or open bush and are predominantly nocturnal, but are frequently seen moving or hunting during the day. They feed mostly on hoofed animals, catching mainly wildebeest, zebra, impala, buffalo, and giraffe. Two to five cubs are born after a gestation period of 25 weeks. A lion has a life expecancy of about 20 years.