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Barbary lion skull
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Barbary lion skull
Oldest UK skull of a North African Barbary lion, Panthera leo leo, dated to 1280-1385. The lion was part of the royal zoo in the Tower of London 700 years ago. Spicimen ZE 1952.10.20.15 Panthera leo Date: 1952
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Media ID 14238792
© Mary Evans / Natural History Museum
Barbary Lion Big Cat Bone Carnivora Epitheria Eutheria Felid Felidae Feliformia Feloidea Lion Mammalia Panthera Panthera Leo Panthera Leo Leo Pantherinae Placental Mammal Skull Studioshot Teeth Theria Tooth Treasures White Background
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this studio shot, the ancient skull of a Barbary lion (Panthera leo leo) takes center stage, offering a glimpse into the rich history of one of the most iconic big cats. Dated to between 1280 and 1385, this skull is the oldest known UK specimen of a North African Barbary lion, a subspecies of the African lion once native to the Atlas Mountains and the Maghreb region. The lion, identified as Specimen ZE 1952.10.20.15, was once a proud resident of the royal menagerie housed in the Tower of London, a testament to the fascination and awe these majestic creatures held for the people of the Middle Ages. The Barbary lion's skull, with its powerful brow ridges, massive canines, and distinctive saber-like teeth, showcases the cat's formidable strength and hunting prowess. Anatomy enthusiasts and history buffs alike will appreciate the intricate details of this ancient skull, which offers a unique window into the anatomy and evolutionary history of this magnificent felid. As a member of the Felidae family, the Barbary lion is part of the larger order Carnivora, which includes other well-known carnivorous mammals such as bears, hyenas, and raccoons. The skull also belongs to the superorder Theria, which includes placental mammals, and the infraorder Feliformia, which includes cats and their close relatives. This historical treasure, preserved for centuries, serves as a reminder of the rich natural history that surrounds us and the importance of preserving and studying our planet's diverse wildlife.
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