Avoca male lions

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(08-27-2022, 05:22 AM)WildLeonis Wrote: James Hendry often commented that he believed DM was older than Blondie and Mohawk due to his size and dark mane when the Avocas first arrived in Djuma. If true, I don’t know how much of an age gap there is in lion years, if any, when lions are born a few weeks or a month or two apart. That said, DM’s condition and age seemed to decline within 3-6 months. This time last year he was still very impressive, had a beautiful big mane, body in great condition, despite the limp, was still scent marking and roaring. But by the time November/December rolled around he was starting to show some decline. It’s been up and down for him ever since, but more down than up it seems. I do wonder sometimes if he has an unknown illness because even when he manages to stay well fed he can’t seem to gain back the body mass he had late last year. I also wonder how he’d be fairing if he was still in a coalition with his northern brothers? Perhaps significantly better than he is fairing now.

Just like in humans, animals also dont age the same, some peak earlier then others. 

DM is over 9 yrs old, 9-10 yrs is average lifespan of wild male lion.

Also, semi-nomadic life took its tool,  since he lost his territory last year, and went on roam thru Sabi Sands his condition start to deterioate. Reply