Lions are known for their social nature and mighty roar. Reaching up to 114 decibels (so loud it would cause a human pain to be standing nearby) a lion’s roar can travel up to eight kilometres and is a complex communication tool. Let’s explore the different meanings of these impressive vocalisations.

Territorial calls

Like most big cats, lions are very territorial and will defend the defined space in which they hunt, shelter and raise their cubs. Roaring lets other lions know that the area belongs to them, and has the dual purpose of helping to avoid conflict and warning off any prides or solitary males who may want to take over the domain.

Lions can tell how strong a competing group is by the number of their roars. This helps them to determine how to respond.

Asserting dominance

In Rachel Bright and Jim Field’s The Lion Inside book, the lion roars to show how important he is. This is one of the reasons lions roar in real life too. Male lions roar to assert their dominance, signalling to other males that they are strong and authoritative. The more a lion roars, the more dominant he is thought to be over a specific area.

Locating each other

The size of a pride’s territory depends on how much food is available, and can range from 20 square km to 400 square km. When members of the pride are in different areas of the territory, roaring helps them to locate each other and check in. This is especially useful in dense bush or at night when visual contact is limited.

Coordinating a hunt

Coordination is an essential part of a successful hunt and roaring assists this. During a hunt, lions often spread out to surround and ambush their prey. By roaring, they can remain organised and improve their chances of success. If a kill is made, a roar may also signal to the other lions that the feast is ready to enjoy.

Mating calls

Male lions roar to communicate their presence to potential mates. The intensity of the roar signals their strength, virility and ability to protect a pride, and attracts females that are ready to reproduce. Males within the same pride may roar to compete for the attention of the females.

Maintaining bonds and structure

Roaring together is a way for lions to reinforce their bonds and maintain unity within the pride. It also strengthens the social structure of the group, emphasizing the hierarchy among the males.

Find your own roar with The Lion Inside

If you want to join The Lion Inside’s mouse and find your roar, why not see the stage show of this popular children’s book? The Lion Inside is a fabulous family show that uses puppetry, dance and sing-along songs to tell this heartwarming story. It’s suitable for kids aged three and up, being just  55 minutes with no interval. Book your tickets today for a roarsome adventure!