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Why do new male lions sometimes kill cubs after taking over a pride?
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lion
The distinguishing feature of a male lion (Panthera leo) is its mane, which makes the animal look larger and may serve to intimidate rivals or impress prospective mates.
When a new cohort of male lions takes over a pride, they often kill the young cubs sired by their predecessors. This behavior, known as infanticide, serves a specific reproductive purpose: it shortens the time before the lionesses are ready to mate again.1
By eliminating the existing cubs, the new males bring the females into estrus sooner, allowing the new males to sire their own offspring more quickly. While lionesses attempt to protect their young—often with more success when the cubs are older and closer to independence—this practice remains a harsh reality of the intense competition for territory and mating rights among male lions.12