lion adaptations

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The lion (Panthera leo) is a member of the family  and one of four  in the  . With exceptionally large males exceeding 250 kgin weight, it is the second-largest living cat after the . Wild lions currently exist in  and in  with a  remnant population in northwest , having disappeared from , the Middle East, and western Asia in historic times. Until the late  (about 10,000 years ago), the lion was the most widespread large land mammal beside humans. They were found in most of Africa, much of Eurasia from western Europe to India, and the  and, in the Americas, from the  to Peru.

The lion is the second largest feline after the . With powerful legs, a strong , and long canine , the lion can bring down and kill large prey. Lion coloration varies from light buff to yellowish, reddish or dark ochraceous brown. The underparts are generally lighter and the tail tuft is black. The color of the mane varies from blond to black.

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Lionesses are powerful animals who usually hunt in groups and stalk their chosen prey. They can reach speeds of 59 km/h (40 mph), although, only for short bursts,so they have to be close to their prey before starting the attack. They take advantage of factors that reduce visibility; many kills take place near some form of cover or at nightThey sneak up to the victim until they reach a distance of approximately 30  or less. Typically, several female lions work together and encircle the herd from different points. Once they have closed with a herd, they usually target the closest prey. The attack ...

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