Customer Reviews

The Serengeti Lion: A Study of Predator-Prey Relations (Wildlife Behavior and Ecology series)

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Many books have been written about lions, but 'The Serengeti Lion' is by far the best. Even though it was published nearly 30 years ago, it's information is still considered authorative by many researchers. The fact that it has remained in print all these years-- longer than any other lion book-- attests to it's continuing popularity. Unlike most popular wildlife books, 'The Serengeti Lion' is a scientific paper. It has not been 'watered down' for the masses. Instead, Schaller writes with a an open, very readable style while still presenting the hard information. In fact, it is hard to put this book down. The book is profusely illustrated with drawings and maps. There is also a photos section. Appendices contain numerous detailed tables and charts of lion data, as well as an extensive bibliography. Several short appendices also deal with the lion's co-predators and favorite prey. If you can own but one book about lions, this should be it!

"Predators are the best wildlife managers," writes George Schaller. His book from the "Wildlife Behavior and Ecology Series" is a result of a three year study in the Serengeti National Park. Supplemented by charts and action-depicting photos and drawings, the book describes almost every aspect of lion life, from social structure and behavior within the group to food habits, hunts and the impact of predation on prey population. Although it briefly mentions other predators (mainly the cheetah, leopard, wild dog and some others), the book concentrates mainly on the lion and is highly recommended to any lion fancier or serious conservationist.

Excellent work by George Schaller. He Takes an intimate look at almost every aspect of lion behavior and social dynamics. From hunting behavior to a lionesses motherly love of her cubs, he takes you into their realm. Schaller gives you a detailed scientific look into what is happening in the life of lions and their world. He backs up his judgements with his own research and the research of others. A must read for any lion enthusiast.

If you want to know everything about African Lions this is the book for you, it is by far the most complete study of African Lions covering all aspects of their life.

There was a lot of interesting facts about lions in this book, including some that breaks the 'typical' lion I'd learned even though the book is older than I am (for example, male lions don't always fight to the death to keep their pride). However, it's very scientific, a bit dry to read and has a LOT of tables so it's definitely not an easy read.