548 Great and Small Game of Africa 



much over 400 lbs. is an exceptionally heavy animal is a correct one. An 

 average full-grown lioness does not measure more than 8 feet 6 inches over 

 all — standing height, 3 feet to 3 feet 2 inches. I have not shot any much 

 larger — 8 feet 1 o inches and 8 feet jh inches are my best ; the former had 

 a shoulder height of 3 feet 3 inches. 



The following remarks upon the character of lions, even if not in 

 accordance with opinions formed by others, are the result of much careful 

 observation and considerable experience in hunting these beasts. Individual 

 lions in one district differ greatly in disposition, as do lions in one part of the 

 continent from those of another ; and, moreover, the writer's personality has 

 to be reckoned with. Dr. Livingstone's lions and the uncanny beasts of 

 Jules .Gerard were totally different creatures. The true lion is neither cur 

 nor fiend, and is only magnanimous when his stomach is full. They have an 

 inborn dislike to man's presence ; therefore, if met in the daytime, usually 

 give way, perhaps after a moment's survey of the intruder, accompanied 

 by a put-out sort of growl and a nourish of the tail. They often make a 

 demonstration to frighten any one who disturbs them at a carcase, but it is 

 more bark than bite, and, if faced firmly, they will retire, growling. There 

 are many exceptions, however, and a savage or hungry lion, or lioness with 

 cubs, will charge without hesitation. Essentially nocturnal in their habits, 

 they are justly dreaded at night, when they become bold, fierce, and 

 aggressive ; and, as they generally make use of game-tracks or foot-paths 

 when moving about, the risk of walking along these at night, in districts 

 infested by lions, is very great, for the savage, hungry brute will be 

 encountered sooner or later, and then the fragments would not be worth 

 collecting. A lion is seen at his best, or worst, when at bay, standing with 

 lowered head and crest erect, his tufted tail twitching, his lips drawn back 

 from the red gums and great white fangs, and living fire flashing from his 

 eyes, while he keeps up an incessant hoarse growling. I venture to think 

 that no animal on earth can look more utterly savage than a lion under 



