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The Lions of the Desert

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Desert Lions are amongst the most unique large predators on earth, that reside in the deserts of Africa. They have adapted to their life in deserts with unique behavioral modifications. They reside ...

Desert Lions are amongst the most unique large predators on earth, that reside in the deserts of Africa. They have adapted to their life in deserts with unique behavioral modifications. They reside largely in the deserts present in the country of Namibia, in the south of Africa.

Despite living in an adverse environment, these lions are quite healthy and fit, in fact perhaps even more so than the lions that live in plains. It appears that the harsh terrain and scarcity of prey has played a part in molding these great cats into their chiseled physical form. Since they reside in an open unrestricted wilderness the lions stray over large distances and are often seen living in isolated small groups, in contrast to other lions who generally live in a closely bound pride. Also, it appears that the desert lions are probably more patient and skilled in their hunting techniques than other members of their species residing elsewhere.

There are between six to nine hundred lions at the moment in Namibia. Out of these a medium-density population exists in the Kunene region of northern Namib desert. This population essentially comprises these desert lions. They usually prey on wild herbivores including kudu, gemsbock etc but at times they do take down cattle belonging to local people. This brings them into conflict with the natives who sometimes shoot, poison or trap the big cats in retaliation.

These desert lions merit study and protection not just for their uniqueness but also because they represent an important step in the evolution of predators towards changes in environment and habitat. As climate changes and desertification takes hold in many parts of our planet, these extraordinary lions of the desert may hold the key towards understanding and perpetuating the survival of many different animals on earth.

Article Tags: Desert Lions