lionesses

A lioness is an adult female lion (Panthera leo). She lacks a mane and is generally smaller and lighter than a male. Lionesses reach sexual maturity at about two to three years.

Lionesses typically live in prides composed of related females and their offspring, with a small number of resident males who defend the territory. Females do most of the hunting, often cooperatively, and raise cubs with help from other pride members.

Reproduction can occur year-round. Gestation lasts about 110 days, and litters usually contain two to four cubs. Cubs are born blind and helpless and are nursed by females in the pride. Daughters commonly remain in the natal pride, while many sons disperse around adolescence to form or join coalitions and seek new territories.

Across Africa, lionesses inhabit savannas, grasslands, scrub, and open woodlands, with a small population in India’s Gir Forest. They require areas with abundant prey and water, and tend to avoid densely forested habitats.

As apex carnivores, they prey on large ungulates such as zebras, antelope, and wildebeest, often relying on coordinated hunts by multiple females. Their diet can vary by region and prey availability.

The species is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Major threats include habitat loss, declines in prey, conflict with humans, and poaching. Conservation efforts focus on protected areas, anti-poaching, and reducing human–lion conflict.