| MadSci Network: Zoology |
Sounds like an ambitious project!
Lion cubs resemble newborn kittens in many ways. They are born with their eyes sealed shut and are basically helpless for several weeks after birth. For this reason, they are usually kept hidden from the pride until they are able to better fend for themselves.
Lions are truly unique among the great cats. They actually thrive better in zoos than in the wild! More than 80% of all lion cubs born die within their first two years. Most of these deaths result from starvation (mom only has the equipment to feed four - and litters are often five or six). Other major contributors are disease and predation.
Another danger is faced if there is a change in dominant males in the pride. The new male will often kill the cubs in order to replace them with his own.
In zoos, lions generally fare so well that it is necessary to take steps in order to keep them from breeding too much!
Good luck with your project. I would like to hear how it progresses.
Brian Self
JazzSelf@aol.com
Try the links in the MadSci Library for more information on Zoology.