Safari Holidays With the Big 5 - Lions

Of all the Big 5 game animals in South Africa, it might be the lion that reigns over the others when it comes to striking the most distinctive figure. Known through many varied depictions in popular culture and fable as the 'King of the Beasts', the lion is definitely a draw for many visitors looking to get up close and see these incredible animals in the wild on their safari holidays. Whether it's the thrill of getting as close as you safely can to such dangerous animals, or a more scholarly or conservation-oriented interest, the lions of Southern Africa are definitely not to be missed.

Hunting

Lions earned their place on the Big 5 list due to the difficulty in hunting them, and they demonstrate their own hunting prowess in their position as the apex predators of the African savannas and grasslands. Lions don't typically hunt humans - good news for your safari holidays! - but their romantic allure as kingly figures of the animal world is emphasised by their capacity to threaten humans, on occasion. Amongst a group (or pride) of lions, it is the lionesses who do most of the hunting, working together in co-ordinated groups to stalk their prey. This teamwork also allows them to defend their kills from other competing predators such as hyenas.

The Mane Thing

The highly distinctive feature of male lions is their mane, and it's the easiest way to spot a lion while on your safari holidays. Having featured in depictions of the animal since the times of cave paintings from the Palaeolithic period, it has become one of the most widely recognised symbols in human culture. Manes make the lion appear larger, providing an excellent intimidation tactic for them to use in ritual confrontations with other lions, and in fending off scavenging hyenas from their kills. On your safari holidays the mane can be an excellent clue as to the condition of the lion - a general rule of thumb is that the darker and fuller the mane, the healthier the lion.

Rest and Play

You're likely to see lions at rest on your safari holidays, as they are inactive and resting for around 20 hours per day. Although lions can be active at any time, their activity generally peaks after dusk, with a period of socialising and grooming before hunting in the night. Feeding is often competitive, as members of the pride try to consume as much food as possible.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/6279732

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