The correct answer is option 'C'. The cows were mooing loudly and running in a panic in all directions because they were afraid of the lion. Here's an explanation of this answer:

Fear of the Lion:
Cows are herbivores and generally peaceful animals. They are known for their gentle nature and grazing behavior. However, when faced with a predator like a lion, which is a natural enemy, cows tend to exhibit signs of fear and panic.

Lion as a Predator:
Lions are apex predators and known for their hunting prowess. They are capable of taking down large herbivores like cows. The mere presence of a lion in the vicinity can trigger a fight-or-flight response in cows.

Mooing Loudly:
When cows are frightened or in distress, they often vocalize their fear by mooing loudly. This vocalization serves as a way to communicate their distress to other members of the herd. By mooing, cows can alert other cows that there is a potential threat nearby.

Running in Panic:
In the face of danger, cows tend to run in a panic to escape the perceived threat. This behavior is a natural instinct for self-preservation. By running away, cows try to create distance between themselves and the predator to ensure their safety.

Directionless Panic:
When cows are in a state of panic, they may run in all directions without a specific pattern. This is because they are trying to find a safe spot or distance themselves from the predator. Their fear and anxiety can cause them to become disoriented, resulting in random movements.

Conclusion:
In this scenario, the cows were mooing loudly and running in a panic in all directions because they were afraid of the lion. The presence of a predator like a lion triggers fear and panic in cows, leading to vocalization and erratic movements as they try to escape the danger.

C