Loin exposure as a means of complementing thermoregulation in Kalahari lions (Panthera leo Linnaeus, 1958)

Abstract

Fieldwork on the thermoregulatory behavior of a small pride of lions (Panthera leo), consisting of three adults and two cubs, was conducted at Intu Afrika Kalahari Game Reserve, Namibia. Continuous daytime and nighttime observations of the pride were performed during winter (May-July 2003) and summer (February-March 2004). Temporal incidences of loin exposure showed a positive relationship with increasing temperature from winter to summer. Full belly loin exposures during both seasons occurred across the ambient temperature range, but empty belly loin exposures were only observed above 17°C. The frequency of loin exposure for both seasons on empty or full bellies rapidly increased from 28°C. The two males demonstrated a similar probability of loin exposure, possibly as a result of their similar shape and sex and the average orientation of loins into an oncoming breeze occurred 51 and 58% during winter and summer, respectively. © 2006 Asian Network for Scientific Information.