Species: There are two sub-species of Lion, the African Lion and the Asian Lion. The only differences in their physical appearance is that the male Asiatic Lion has a smaller mane and a skin fold that runs down the center of it's abdomen.

Lifespan: In the wild, male Lions live to be about 12 years old, while females can live to be between 15 and 16 years old.

Size & Weight: Male lions grow to be about 9 ft long, not including their 3 ft long tails. Male Lions weigh about 420 lbs and females weight about 280 lbs.

Habitat: Asiatic Lions are near extinction and can be found in protected areas in India. African Lions can still be found wild, but there numbers are also greatly reduced. African Lions prefer arid planes and savannas. They often seek the shade of the Acacia trees that grow int he savannas.

Family Life: Lions live in large groups called prides. The prides are made up of one or two male lions, about six or seven females, and many cubs. Lions protect a part of land that they claim as their territory. If other prides try to hunt int heir territory fights between males will occur. Young lions stay with their pride until they are about 3 years old. At three they are kicked out of their pride and go off on their own to find another pride to take over or join. Female are in charge of hunting for the pack to provide food for the other members. Sometimes other animals, such as hyenas, try to steal their kill.

*Fun Facts*

• Lions can often survive during extreme drought by eating tsama melons for moisture.
• Some male lions do not have manes