Today is

By: Ikedi Ani-okoye.

Lion introduction facts

Lions are the only social cats, living in groups called prides. Male lions are the only cats with manes - a trait of which the origin and purpose has divided scientists. Living in prides helps lions survive in difficult times, proving particularly beneficial for the vulnerable young cubs that need protection.

Where to find a Lion

Except for a small population that hangs on in the dry Gir Forest of northwest India, lions now live only in Africa. They are found from the Sahara's southern fringe to northern South Africa, but are absent from equatorial areas dominated by moist tropical forest. The lion is listed as vulnerable on the World Conservation Union's (IUCN's) Red List of Threatened Animals. The Gir Forest population, which consists of about 300 lions, is listed as endangered.

Lion History

More than 10,000 years ago, lions thrived from North and South America to Europe, Africa, and Asia. Today, following climatic changes and after centuries of hunting and habitat degradation by people, lions live in scattered habitats across Africa (with the exception of the Gir Forest lions, which live in a park in northwest India).

Within these areas, lions still face dangers, including habitat loss and hunting. Many have died from diseases such as distemper, which is spread by domestic dogs from villages near natural habitat.

The Lion

The lion appears as a seemingly fearless creature. So beautiful from afar, with its unique mane outlining it's face, gallantly parading around the forest. Each step the large creature takes is bold and thoughtful, making the leaves from underneath only crumble. For he is the Lion, the strength of the forest and all the creatures around know it.

Mostly he is quiet, walking casually around, but often he stops, glancing from side to side, letting out a roar. He roars loudly, his voice echoing off the trees, as the other smaller creatures peer from behind bushes. They watch in awe, not in fear, and envy his strength and the ability to do it all alone.

CONCLUSION

African lion safaris are take place in the natural habitat of lions and are found in areas like South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Kenya, and Tanzania. Some of the famous African lion safaris are in Kruger National Park, Pilanesburg National Park and Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa; Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Linyanti Game Reserve in Botswana; Etosha National Park in Namibia; Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania; and Aberdare National Park, Samburu National Reserve and Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya.