Decibel Shield
Decibel chart › Lion roar
How loud is a lion roar?
A lion roar measures about 114 dB, roughly as loud as a pneumatic rock drill. At 114 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 35 seconds a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
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| Decibel level | 114 dB |
|---|---|
| Hearing risk | High risk — One measured roar reached 114 dB; at that level NIOSH's safe time is under a minute |
| Safe exposure (NIOSH) | About 35 seconds a day |
| Typical setting | outdoors |
Figures sourced to Smithsonian National Zoo. See the full decibel levels chart for every source.
How a lion roar compares
On the decibel scale, 114 dB sits above the 85 dB line where sustained exposure damages hearing. Sounds at a similar level:
- Pneumatic rock drill 115 dB
- Chainsaw 110 dB
- Shouting or barking directly in the ear 110 dB
- Sonic boom 110 dB
Everything at this level, with safe exposure times: how loud is 114 dB? →
How loud is a lion roar?
A lion roar measures about 114 dB, roughly as loud as a pneumatic rock drill. At 114 dB it is at or above the 85 dB line where hearing damage starts: NIOSH puts the safe limit at about 35 seconds a day. Normal conversation runs about 60 dB for comparison.
Is a lion roar dangerous to hearing?
Yes — at 114 dB, a lion roar is loud enough to damage hearing over time. NIOSH limits safe exposure to about 35 seconds a day; use hearing protection beyond that.
Measure it yourself
Decibel levels vary with distance and surroundings. Check the real level where you are with the free online decibel meter — no install, nothing recorded — or see the full decibel levels chart.