Lions roar to proclaim their territory and to assert dominance. This vocalization is particularly important for male lions, who use it to signal their presence and deter rival males from encroaching on their domain. By doing so, they help maintain the pride’s territory and safety. Their distinctive roar is generally delivered in the evening before a night’s hunting and again before getting up at dawn.

Roaring also plays a crucial role in social bonding and coordination within the pride, which typically consists of several generations of lionesses, a few breeding males, and their cubs. The roar helps keep pride members connected, especially when they are scattered across their territory. It allows them to locate each other and regroup, which is essential for hunting and sharing meals. This vocalization strengthens the social bonds among pride members and ensures their collective survival.