African Lion

More Information

African lions are large predators that can weigh up to 500 pounds. Males are larger than females and can be distinguished by their mane, which surrounds their head and extends down to their chest. Lions live in prides of up to 40 individuals; the average group has 13 members. The species breeds year-round. Males compete fiercely for the ability to breed with prides of females. Young males often band together to gain control of a pride, with stronger males forcing weaker ones out in battles. The females of a pride often give birth in close proximity and can help one another care for their cubs. Cubs are kept in hiding for the first eight weeks of their lives and remain dependent on adults until they are 16 months of age. Females remain in their pride upon reaching maturity, while males leave the group after two and a half years, living nomadically for a time before seeking to take over their own pride.

Did You Know?

Lions normally spend up to 20 hours a day resting.

Lions are the only wild big cats that live and hunt in groups.

They often use coordinated group attacks to capture prey, surrounding their prey before charging from the left, right, and center. When individual lions routinely attack from the same position, their hunts become more successful.