lion

The lion (Panthera leo) is a large cat native to Africa south of the Sahara and a small population in India. Lions are highly social, living in prides that usually include related females, their cubs, and a few adult males. Males may form coalitions to defend territory and cooperate with females in hunting, while females do most of the hunting and cub-rearing.

Physically, male lions are distinguished by a mane, varying in size and color, and they tend to be heavier than females. Adults are muscular with a large skull and strong forelimbs, adaptations that aid in bringing down large prey.

Lions inhabit savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. Their range has shrunk in many areas, with protected populations across sub-Saharan Africa and a small, isolated population in India’s Gir Forest.

As apex predators, lions hunt large ungulates, often through cooperative teamwork within the pride. They will also scavenge. They communicate with vocalizations such as roars that can carry for miles, along with grunts and growls.

Reproduction occurs year-round in some regions. Females give birth to litters of about one to six cubs after a gestation of roughly 110 days. Cubs are raised by females, while males may challenge resident males during pride changes, which can endanger existing cubs.

Conservation status: The IUCN lists the lion as Vulnerable. Threats include habitat loss, prey depletion, human–wildlife conflict, and disease. Protection in reserves and regional programs aims to stabilize populations and maintain genetic diversity.