• Question: Why do lions have a mane?

    Asked by annag123 to Charlotte, Jo, Kevin, Louise, Valeria on 19 Jun 2012.
    • Photo: Kevin Mahon

      Kevin Mahon answered on 19 Jun 2012:

      It makes the lion appear larger, providing an excellent intimidation display; this aids the lion during confrontations with other lions and with the species’ chief competitor in Africa, the spotted hyena.

    • Photo: Joanna Cruden

      Joanna Cruden answered on 19 Jun 2012:

      It also is a way to attract the female lioness as it is a sign of power and prowess, so natural selection means their manes remain nice and big and intimidating

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