Communication

Two young lions roaring
Lions communicate by many means. They are social animals and therefore communication is more developed than other cats. Their voice communication consists of grunts, growls, hisses, moans, meows, and the famous roar. Their hyoid bone is only partially ossified, it is this provision which allows them to roar, but thus they are not able to purr, strictly speaking, but they do, like other beasts, by expiration. It is heard when two lions interact each other on a friendly basis. Purring does not sound like a kitten, but as a grunt or a serious snoring. The roar has various meanings, depending on the situation in which it is used. Roar is used to divide the territory, call the other group members, intimidate rivals and strengthen the "family" ties between group members. The roars of the male are stronger and deeper than those of the female. By a strong expiration, the lions roar, returning their flanks and chest swelling, often in a low growl starting with a few low grunts and groans, which tell other lions that group lives in the area, and stay outside the territory. On a clear night, it can be heard up to five kilometers distance Females use a low grunt to call their young.

Body language is of equal importance. The lions have a complex ceremonial greeting in which they moan gently one and the other, swinging his head sideways and keep the tail lifted up, or resting on the back of the other lion. Like some other cats, lions are hitting their heads and bowing. Licking the head, shoulders and neck is also a sign of affection. The lions, like other wild cats have black ears with big white circles on their backs. These large white circles are used to indicate mood: when they are angry, lions and other carnivores are expanding their ears flat against their heads. It is unclear whether a cat is angry at a distance, but if you see flashing white circles, you can remotely know that he is furious and he better not come close. This avoids many combats .