FAQ #9 – What is the normal Gestation period for a lioness?

The normal gestation period for a lioness is roughly 110 days. A lioness conceives between 2 – 4 cubs.

In the wild, roughly 15 percent of all cubs born reach maturity, which means there is quite a high mortality rate. 

FAQ #8 – What happens when a male lion takes over the pride?

When male lions reach full maturity, they are ready to take over territory – which means taking over a pride.

When a male lion takes over a pride, the first thing he does is to kill off the previous males offspring. He kills the cubs because they are not biologically related to him, and does not want to spend his energy ensuring that other lions’ genes will be passed on.

However, within days or weeks of losing their cubs, the female lions come into oestrus and mate with the cub-killing male, and produce other cubs.

FAQ #6 – What are the main dangers that lions face in the wild?

Lions and especially African lions may be one of the most dangerous and feared animals in the world. However, they are faced with many dangers, threats and obstacles in the wild.

Lion hunting is a significant danger that lions face – with other human threats, such as population growth and agricultural expansion resulting in the lions loss of natural habitat and territory. 

FAQ #5 – What Diseases are Lions prone to?

African lions, especially those that live in the wild are vulnerable to many diseases. One such disease is Bovine Tuberculosis.

Bovine Tuberculosis is a serious disease that spreads among numerous wildlife species, and has established itself as a significant problem in lions.

Other infectious viral diseases affecting African lions include Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) or Feline AIDS, which breaks down the lion’s natural immunity or resistance to disease.