While male and female lions often hunt together, either as a single pair or in groups, it is usually the females that circle around and drive the prey towards the hidden males. With a sudden rushing leap, a male pounces on the victim, and death comes quickly. In spite of the fact that they must kill to survive, lions only kill when hungry and never for the sport of it. Although they are not aware of it, they are dependent on the Creator for their food supply. The Bible states, “The eyes of all wait upon Thee; and Thou givest them their meat in due season” (Psalm 145:1515The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season. (Psalm 145:15)).
Lions prey on antelopes, zebras, springboks, wildebeests, impalas and some smaller animals. However, they do not always do their own hunting. Sometimes they come upon other animals feeding on something they have captured and will drive the animals off and take over the prize. On other occasions, they watch the sky for vultures. These carnivorous birds quickly drop to the earth when they see a dead animal. Following this lead, the lion finds food without the work.
As strong and fierce as they are, lions are not always successful in their hunting; swift animals often escape. At times, the lion itself becomes the victim. When zebras and giraffes are pursued by a lion, they will sometimes watch until the lion is right at their heels and then give a vicious kick to the lion’s face. Many a lion has had its jaw broken and been forced to give up the chase. With such an injury, it cannot eat and will eventually starve to death.
The lions taking part in a big feed will lie down together and sleep it off in places where they are well hidden. At such times, with the lions’ stomachs full, a person or animal could walk by them and not be bothered.
Although the big male looks very noble, he does not always measure up to the title. If food has been scarce or if he is extremely hungry, even if a female has made the catch, he will not let her or the cubs eat until he has eaten his fill. This sometimes results in the cubs starving to death.
The lives and habits of these huge beasts remind us that this world is full of trouble — the result of sin which is seen on every hand. There are many evil things around us which Satan, the “roaring lion,” uses to capture careless ones, so a place of safety is most important. The Bible tells us of a sure place of escape: “The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy from before [you]” (Deuteronomy 33:2727The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and he shall thrust out the enemy from before thee; and shall say, Destroy them. (Deuteronomy 33:27)). Is He your hiding place?
(to be continued)
ML-11/03/2002