Lions in zoological collections require complex social management, adequate space and daily enrichment to meet their behavioural needs and maintain good welfare.
Lions in inadequate zoo conditions experience chronic boredom, frustration and social conflict that are measurable through stress hormones and stereotypic behaviour. The mismatch between their complex predatory nature and sedentary captive conditions requires active management through daily enrichment to bridge. The social complexity of lion groups means that poorly matched individuals cause persistent conflict and stress. The best lion exhibits offer substantial space, complex social groups with appropriate demographics, and sophisticated enrichment programmes that engage natural predatory and exploratory drives.