African Lion
Panthera leo
I am one of the most iconic big cats in the world, known for my strength, golden coat, and — if I’m a male — my impressive mane. I live in a social group called a pride. My roar can be heard up to 8 kilometers away, helping me communicate and defend my territory.
Did you know?
- I am the only big cat that lives in a social group called a pride.
- My roar can be heard up to 8 kilometers away, making it one of the loudest calls in the animal kingdom.
- If I am a female lion, I do most of the hunting. I work together with other lionesses in my pride to bring down prey.
- I can sleep up to 20 hours a day to conserve energy for hunting.
- If I am a male lion, I grow a mane that gets darker and fuller as I get older, showing my strength and maturity.
Habitat & food
Habitat
I live in savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands across sub-Saharan Africa and a few parts of India. I like areas with plenty of prey to hunt and shaded spots to rest during the heat of the day.
Visitor guidelines
Please stay behind the safety barriers and don’t lean over or touch the fence. Loud noises or banging on the glass make me nervous. Never throw food or objects into my enclosure. Keep children close and follow zoo staff instructions so everyone can watch me safely and respectfully.