Q. Consider the following statements:
1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Correct answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Question from UPSC Prelims 2024 GS Paper
Explanation:
1. Lions do not have a particular breeding season.
This statement is correct. Lions can mate and breed throughout the year, without being restricted to a specific season.
2. Unlike most other big cats, cheetahs do not roar.
This statement is also correct. Cheetahs are unique among big cats in that they cannot roar. Instead, they make a variety of other vocalizations, including chirps, purrs, and high-pitched yelps.
3. Unlike male lions, male leopards do not proclaim their territory by scent marking.
This statement is incorrect. Male leopards, like most big cats including lions, do use scent marking to proclaim their territory. They use urine spraying, feces, and scent glands to mark their territories.
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) 1 and 2 only.