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African lion

Pride of the Plains·Mammal

African lions are the only big cat to live in family groups called prides. Prides can have up to three male and a dozen females. Females are usually related because they stay with the pride while the male cubs leave. The male lion's mane is an indication of the lion's physical condition, it attracts females, and protects his neck during fights with other male lions. Lionesses are responsible for most of the hunting, and the pride will stay in the vicinity of their kill for several days before moving on to find the next meal. They once roamed Africa, Asia, and Europe, but are now only found in parts of Sub-Saharan Africa.

  • African lion
  • Conservation StatusVulnerable
  • Life span10-20 years
  • Body size260-550 lbs.
    5.5-8 ft. long
  • Native habitat Grasslands, savannas, open woodlands of Sub-Saharan Africa
  • DietGiraffe, buffalo, wild hogs, zebra, antelope, etc.
Eastern black rhinoceros Reticulated giraffe

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