This close-up of the lioness shows her eyes. People who own domestic cats have found that it is not a good idea to touch a cat while it is sleeping, even if the eye is open slightly. Lions have the same lightning reflexes when disturbed during sleep. It's necessary to be able to defend oneself in the wild, where either natural predators or rivals may attack at any moment. Sleep conserves energy, but it doesn't mean that the cat gets out of shape. They are ready and alert in an instant. |
http://hua.umf.maine.edu/China/beijing4.html
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update: November 2009
© Marilyn Shea, 2009