LIONS by Kyle Mathews

HABITAT §The only naturally occurring lions are now found in Africa. §Lions do not live in heavy forests or desert areas due to scarcity of game, but inhabit jungles and mountainous areas.

Physical Features §A mature male stands 4 feet at the shoulder and is 8.5 feet long, weighing about 450 pounds. §Females are considerably smaller, weighing less than 300 pounds. §Adult lions usually have plain unspotted coats. §Cubs are marked with spots on legs and bellies. §Male lions have a brown mane, which grows darker and much fuller as the animal ages.

FOOD §Lions feed on buffalo, zebra, antelope, giraffe and warthogs, but prefers wildebeast. §Lions also steal the kills from other predators. §Lions drink carefully from water holes.

PREDATORS §Lions killed by hunters and livestock herdsmen §Lions killed by marauding lions and hyenas §Lions forced to leave because of drought

INTERESTING FACTS §The roar of a lion can be heard up to five miles away. §The mature male's mane not only makes him appear larger, but protects his throat from his mortal enemies. §Lions are one of the most threatened major groups of land animals.

COMPREHENSION 1. Where do lions live? 2. What are some of the physical features of lions? 3. What types of food do they eat? 4. What predators do lions have to fear? 5. What are two interesting facts about lions?

WORKS CITED l Africa l Google Images html l Google Images l Google Images l Google Images