What Happens When a New Pride Takes Over?

Question:

If the pride is taken over by new individuals, what happens to the…

a. females?

b. males?

c. cubs?

Answer Description:

When a pride of lions is taken over by new males, significant changes occur within the group:

a. Females: The lionesses usually remain in the pride after a takeover. They may initially resist the new males but eventually accept them, especially if the males demonstrate their strength and dominance. The females often stay together as they are typically related and have strong social bonds.

b. Males: The existing males in the pride are usually driven out or killed by the new males. The new males take over the pride and establish themselves as the dominant ones. These new males will then mate with the females to produce their own offspring.

c. Cubs: The new males often kill the existing cubs in the pride. This brutal act, known as infanticide, ensures that the females come back into estrus (heat) more quickly, allowing the new males to sire their own offspring. By eliminating the previous males’ cubs, the new males increase their chances of passing on their genes.

This natural process ensures the new males’ genetic lineage continues and maintains their control over the pride. Although harsh, these actions are part of the evolutionary strategies seen in lion prides.