How does the amount of prey affect a lion pride’s territory size?

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The availability of prey is a primary factor in determining the size of a lion pride’s territory. When food is abundant, a pride can sustain itself within a smaller area, sometimes as small as 20 square km (8 square miles). Conversely, if prey is sparse, the pride must expand its range significantly to secure enough food, with territories reaching up to 400 square km (around 150 square miles).12

Each pride maintains a well-defined territory that includes a core area, which is strictly defended against intruders, and a fringe area where some overlap with other prides may be tolerated. Lions actively proclaim and defend these boundaries through roaring and various forms of scent marking, such as urinating on trees or bushes.2