The pride hunts and eats collectively. There may be as many as forty lions in a pride, including 2-18 adult females and up to 7 adult males, but it is rare that all are assembled in one spot. They are usually scattered singly and in small groups that change from day to day. Several females may give birth in the same month and not only rear their young together, but also suckle cubs other than their own. The male's chief role in the pride is to defend territory and the females from other males.
Size is obviously an advantage, but increased size requires more food.
The bulky mane gives the appearance of greater size without increased weight. The mane also provides protection from the claws and teeth of other males. Males are so large that it actually hinders their ability to hunt. Lions spend 20-21 hours a day resting. They are most likely to be active in late afternoon, early and late night, and during the early hours of daylight.