African Lion Facts
Panthera leo
African lions are powerful social cats that live in prides across savannas and open woodlands. Cooperative hunting and shared care of cubs set them apart from most other cats.
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Diet
- Antelope, zebra, wildebeest, and other mammals
- Lifespan
- 10–14 years
African Lion Facts at a Glance
African lions are powerful social cats that live in prides across savannas and open woodlands. Cooperative hunting and shared care of cubs set them apart from most other cats.
It belongs to the family Felidae in the order Carnivora. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; the source names below document the review basis.
African Lion Habitat
African Lions live in Grassland and Savanna habitats. Their recorded range includes Sub-Saharan Africa. Suitable food, shelter, and conditions for raising young help shape that range.
What Do African Lions Eat?
African Lions have a carnivore diet that includes Antelope, zebra, wildebeest, and other mammals. The food available in their environment shapes how they find, hunt, forage for, or receive meals.
African Lion Lifespan, Size, and Weight
African Lions typically live for 10–14 years. Adults measure about 137–250 cm and weigh around 120–250 kg; these ranges can vary with sex, age, environment, and access to food.
African Lion Conservation Status
African Lion is listed here as Vulnerable. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.
Quick facts
- Region
- Sub-Saharan Africa
- Habitat
- Grassland, Savanna
- Diet
- Carnivore
- Lifespan
- 10–14 years
- Size
- 137–250 cm
- Weight
- 120–250 kg
Fun facts
- A lion pride usually includes related females, their cubs, and a coalition of males.
- A lion's roar can carry for several kilometres across open habitat.
- Lionesses perform most cooperative hunts for the pride.
- Male manes vary in colour and become darker with age and condition.
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Sources and image credit
Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under the stated license.