The African lion (Panthera leo) is the apex predator within the Serengeti National Park ecosystem. This vast expanse of plains and woodlands in Tanzania hosts one of the world’s largest concentrations of migrating and resident megafauna. The lion’s diet directly reflects this environment’s biological richness. Its survival is intimately tied to the seasonal movements and sheer abundance of the great herbivore herds that traverse the landscape.
Primary Prey Species
The majority of a Serengeti lion’s diet consists of large ungulates, which provide the highest caloric return for the energy spent hunting. The blue wildebeest is the most relied-upon prey animal, especially during the Great Migration when millions pass through the lions’ territories. Lions track these immense herds, making wildebeest a staple that sustains the population year-round.
Plains zebra are the second most important food source, often hunted alongside wildebeest. Although zebras are difficult to catch due to their unpredictable escape patterns, their sheer numbers ensure they are frequently targeted. Cape buffalo form the third cornerstone of the lion diet. Hunting buffalo is a high-risk endeavor, requiring the coordinated effort of multiple adult lionesses, and sometimes the participation of males.
Secondary and Opportunistic Food Sources
When the main migratory herds move out or an easy chance presents itself, lions turn to secondary and opportunistic food sources. Smaller antelope species, such as Thomson’s gazelles and impala, are frequently consumed, providing a quick, lower-risk meal. Warthogs are another common prey item, often ambushed or dug out of their burrows.
Lions will also tackle larger animals, usually targeting juveniles, the old, or sick individuals to mitigate danger. This includes young giraffes, as adults are protected by their powerful kicks. Scavenging is a key part of the lion’s feeding strategy, with prides readily taking over kills made by cheetahs, leopards, or hyenas, or consuming carcasses from natural deaths.
Acquisition and Selection of Prey
The lion’s social structure is linked to its hunting success, with lionesses performing the majority of the hunting in cooperative groups. Most hunting occurs under the cover of darkness, where their night vision gives them an advantage over herbivore prey. By working together, a pride can encircle a herd, driving individuals toward an ambush point or confusing the group to isolate a target.
Prey selection focuses less on the overall number of animals and more on the “catchability” of a specific individual. Lions observe herds to identify animals that are separated, injured, or vulnerable, which minimizes physical risk to the pride. They use the Serengeti’s diverse terrain, such as tall grasses or rocky outcrops, to conceal themselves for a close-range ambush before the final charge.