Why Is the Lion Called King of Beasts?
Why Is the Lion Called King of Beasts? The lion is often called the “king of beasts.” This is not because the lion can defeat almost all other animals in combat, and not because the lion is the biggest animal (it’s not). The lion acquired its kingly fame because it is the most regal looking of animals.
The majestic appearance of the male lion is enhanced by a great, flowing mane. Man has long honored the lion, crediting it with qualities prized in humans – courage, strength, and loyalty.
Throughout history, the lion ranks among the fiercest and strongest of all wild creatures. Images of lions were often used on the crests of European royalty to indicate nobility and power.
Lions live on the plains of Africa. Newborn lion cubs are about the size of a large house cat. When fully grown, the male lion may measure more than 9 feet long from his nose to the tip of his tail. And weight more than 400 pounds.
One would expect lions to be fearless in hunting, yet they sometimes wait in ambush for prey to come close, they attack with a sudden pounce.