In a lion pride, males and females have distinct but complementary roles:
- Male lions primarily defend the pride's territory. They mark it with urine, roar to warn intruders, chase off rivals, and protect the pride from other males and threats
- Female lions (lionesses) are the main hunters and leaders within the pride. They coordinate and execute hunts using teamwork and strategy to provide food. Lionesses also play a key role in defending the pride's territory alongside males, raising and nurturing the cubs, and maintaining social bonds within the pride
Thus, males focus on protection and territory defense, while females handle hunting, nurturing, and social cohesion, making them central to the pride's survival and success.
