Unraveling the Secrets of Tsavo’s Man-Eating Lions

A groundbreaking study reveals the deadly diets of Tsavo’s infamous “man-eater” lions through DNA analysis of hairs embedded in their damaged teeth.

The Terror of Tsavo

In 1898, two maneless male lions terrorized a bridge builders’ camp in Kenya, killing at least 28 people before being fatally shot by Lt. Col. John Henry Patterson.

Unlocking the Lions’ Diet

Researchers analyzed DNA from hairs in the lions’ teeth, discovering a diverse range of prey, including:

1. Giraffes
2. Humans
3. Zebras
4. Wildebeests
5. Elands
6. Impalas
7. Oryx
8. Porcupines
9. Warthogs

Genetic Insights

The study confirmed the lions were:

1. Siblings
2. Kenyan or Tanzanian in origin
3. Fully grown, older adult males despite being maneless

Methodological Breakthroughs

The research employed advanced DNA sequencing and analysis techniques, including:

1. Mitochondrial DNA analysis
2. Nuclear DNA authentication
3. Genomic investigation

Expert Insights

“Our study provides a unique glimpse into the lives of these infamous lions.” – Ripan S. Malhi, U. of I. anthropology professor

Reference:

De Flamingh, A., et al. (2024). Ancient DNA analysis of the Tsavo man-eating lions. Current Biology. DOI: [insert DOI]

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What can we learn from this study about the behavior and ecology of man-eating lions?