African Lion

*This page is under renovation and all information may not be up-to-date or complete*

Description

These big cats are brown and tan in color and males are known for their distinct males.

Range & Habitat

African lions are native to Sub-Saharan Africa. They can be found in grassy plains, known as Savannas, as well as open woodlands.

Behavior

Lions are the most social big cats, living in groups, also known as prides, consisting of 4-6 adults. Female lions will form sisterhoods and help each other when they are sick or when raising cubs.

Male lions, on average, sleep around 20 hours a day in the wild while females are slightly more active, sleeping around 16 hours a day.

Diet

As with all big cats, these cats are carnivores. Their diet consists of wildebeest, antelope, zebra, giraffe, and warthog. A lion’s back teeth are called carnassals and work like a pair of scissors, helping them eat up to 40 pounds of meat per meal.

Conservation

The biggest threat to the wild African lion population is depletion of available prey and habitat loss. Trophy hunting is also a threat.

Fun Facts

Their mane helps protect the lion’s face and neck when fighting other males.
The roar of a lion can be heard up to 5 miles away and territorial roaring is often heard after sunset.