Why Do Lions Sleep So Much ?

The Lion is the animal of power and conquest par excellence. He is often represented in various objects and accessories of the western culture.

However, when he is not hunting, he spends most of his time sleeping and lounging, giving him the image of a lazy king doing nothing all day. Let’s see why lions sleep so much.

The Lions Sleep : an Inordinate Amount of Time

The lion is a heavy sleeper. They might even make your cat who spends all day on the couch look hyperactive. In fact, they sleep 18 to 20 hours a day, dozing.

Lionesses are only slightly better, sleeping between 15 and 18 hours a day. But they spend more time hunting and caring for cubs.

Moreover, lions can sleep 24 hours after eating.

The Sleeping Time of the Different Types of Lions

Some types of lions sleep only 14 hours a day in South Africa. Since they do not have an established pack, they have to spend more time protecting themselves from opposing lions and elephants that could kill them.

Another example is that lions in zoos only sleep 10-15 hours a day, which is not necessarily natural and we recommend that all lion lovers avoid zoos where the lions’ sleep patterns are not respected.

What Is the Sleep Pattern for a Lion ?

Lions tend to be nocturnal animals, doing their hunting after dusk when it is cool and they are less noticeable by their appearance. Most of their sleep is during the day.

Sleeping during the day also allows them to hunt in cooler temperatures.

Where Do Lion Sleep ? The Ideal Environment

Lions usually sleep in shady spots, unable to sleep in direct sunlight. They usually sleep in groups, as shade is limited in Africa and in the areas of Asia where they live. Within their territories, they are not afraid of predators, even while sleeping.

But Why Lions Sleep So Much ?

Lions love to relax and bask. They spend between 16 and 20 hours a day resting and sleeping because they have few sweat glands, and tend to conserve their energy by resting during the day.

Their fights against buffaloes and elephants can also be very violent and long and quickly deplete their reserves.

Lion Lodges : Sleeping in Front of the African Lions

Some lodgings offer sleeping accommodations with large bay windows facing packs of lions. If the companies respect the conditions necessary for the lions to thrive, this can be a good experience. They will sleep less than in the wild, not needing to exert themselves to hunt, but they will be much less impressive than their wild counterparts.

In the heart of the African bush, Kruger Lodge, Etosha Lodge, Kwanza Lodge and Serengeti Lodge offer you an unusual night in front of the lions.

The Kruger Lodge and the Etosha Lodge propose you to discover the majestic white lions of Africa. The Kwanza Lodge and the Serengeti Lodge offer you a breathtaking view of the yellow lions of Africa.

In a setting that perfectly combines the charm and authenticity of Africa, Kruger Lodge, Etosha Lodge, Kwanza Lodge and Serengeti Lodge offer you high quality services: large panoramic windows for an unobstructed view of the world of lions. The lodges are carefully designed in an authentic and warm atmosphere and offer you an unusual night in the heart of La Sarthe, in a cosy, intimate and friendly atmosphere.

You will share with your family or friends, a refined dinner, thought and realized by a Chef, as well as a copious breakfast.

From dream to reality, the Kruger Lodge, the Etosha Lodge, the Kwanza Lodge or the Serengeti Lodge will make you spend an unforgettable night at the Zoo! During the day you will enjoy a visit to the park, which will be punctuated by a guided tour and an educational animation.

Hope you enjoyed the funny facts about the sleepy lions, don’t forget to take a look to our beautiful Lion Carpets for a perfect decor !

• the Kruger Lodge
• the Etosha Lodge
• the Kwanza Lodge
• the Serengeti Lodge