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Multiple Choice
In lion prides, if the pride is taken over by new males, what typically happens to the females?
A
The females are usually allowed to remain in the pride and may mate with the new males.
B
The females are driven out of the pride by the new males.
C
The females are killed by the new males to eliminate competition.
D
The females leave voluntarily to form a new pride.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the context: Lion prides are social groups consisting of related females, their offspring, and a few adult males. When new males take over a pride, they aim to establish dominance and ensure their genetic lineage.
Recognize the behavior of females: Female lions are typically the core of the pride and are not usually driven out or killed by the new males. They are essential for the pride's stability and hunting success.
Consider the males' strategy: New males often eliminate the offspring of the previous males (infanticide) to bring the females back into estrus, allowing them to mate and pass on their genes. However, they do not harm the females themselves.
Eliminate incorrect options: Females are not driven out, killed, or likely to leave voluntarily. These actions would disrupt the pride's structure and reduce the males' chances of reproductive success.
Conclude the correct answer: The females are usually allowed to remain in the pride and may mate with the new males, as this aligns with the males' goal of establishing their genetic dominance while maintaining the pride's functionality.