Made with Xara Web Designer Over a lifetime of about fifteen years, the King of the beasts can acquire a collection of scars on his face, these are from battles with other males looking to usurp his control over his harem of females.  The male Lion’s magnificent mane affords some protection from these skirmishes, but they also come from hunting his prey through the bush, where chases through thorn scrub thicket also leaves their mark.  These clashes can be so violent that the loser can be seriously injured.  Male Lions who wish to take over a pride will challenge the resident male. One form this sometimes takes is a 'stare-down', where two males will sit a few feet apart, face-to-face, and stare at each other. The first one to break his stare is the 'loser'. This can go on for many hours. Eventually, most pride control power struggles end in some form of physical confrontation. Fights to the death occur occasionally, and many a male in his prime has fallen acquiring or defending a pride. Surviving losers often become nomads, and have to fend for themselves.   The Old Warrior If you are interested in acquiring this painting or would like further information please contact me Link to Us Privacy Photo Gallery Guestbook 16"x11” -  41x28cm Acrylic on Canvas All content and artwork copyright to Stephen Gayford and may not be reproduced without permission © 2007 - 2011