Why do lions roar?

If you have ever heard a lion roar, you know it is an impressive sound: low, powerful and deep. Lions are the only cats that live in groups, and their roar is a key part of their social life. Why does a lion roar?

A voice you can hear for kilometers

A lion roar can be heard from several kilometers away, especially on the savanna, where there are few obstacles. It is one of the most powerful sounds made by land animals.

To mark territory

Lions live in groups called prides, made up of several females, their cubs and one or more males. With their roar they warn other prides that this territory is taken. This avoids unnecessary fights, which could end in serious injuries.

To meet up and communicate

The roar also helps members of the pride find each other when they get separated, especially in the evening. Each lion has a slightly different roar, and the others know who it is.

How they manage to roar

Lions have a special larynx and wide, flat vocal cords that vibrate with the air coming from their lungs, which is why their voice is so deep and powerful.

When they roar

They usually do it at night and at dawn, when it is cooler, and often several at once. During the day they sleep many hours, up to twenty, to save energy.

Life in the pride

Lionesses usually hunt as a team, while the males defend the territory. Cubs learn by playing and, after a few months, begin to roar with a voice that is still weak.

Activity: your own roar

Try to imitate a lion roar with your voice and put your hand on your throat: you will feel it vibrate. That vibration is what makes the sound. Then try it with a very high voice and compare.