I saw a video of a male lion who wandered into the middle of a hyena clan. Of course, he was attacked and tormented, but at no time does he try to really run away. Why would that be?

 The behavior you observed in the male lion when confronted by a hyena clan could be attributed to several factors related to lion behavior and social dynamics:

1. **Territorial Instincts:** Lions are territorial animals, and their pride (a group of lions) defends a specific territory from intruders. The male lion may have felt a strong need to defend its territory, even in the face of aggression from hyenas. Retreating might be perceived as a threat to the pride's territory.

2. **Protective Behavior:** The male lion might have been protecting members of its pride, especially if there were lionesses or cubs nearby. Lions often prioritize the safety of their group and may stand their ground to protect their family members.

3. **Dominance Display:** In the animal kingdom, dominant individuals sometimes adopt a confrontational stance to assert their dominance and discourage challengers. The male lion's refusal to retreat could be a way of asserting its dominance over the hyenas.

4. **Awareness of Strength:** Lions are powerful predators, and the male may have been confident in its ability to handle the hyenas. The lion's size, strength, and sharp claws and teeth could give it an advantage in a confrontation.

5. **Social Hierarchy:** Within a lion pride, there is typically a hierarchy, and the dominant male may have a heightened sense of authority and control. This dominance may extend to interactions with other species, such as hyenas.

6. **Stressful Situations:** In some instances, animals may experience a state of heightened stress or confusion that affects their normal behavioral responses. The male lion's actions could have been influenced by the stress of the encounter.

It's important to note that animal behavior can be complex, and various factors can contribute to the way animals respond to different situations. While male lions are powerful predators, they may still face challenges from other species, and their behavior can be shaped by a combination of instinct, experience, and the specific circumstances of the encounter.