Written by Daryll Williams

It’s not hard to see why lions are so ubiquitously revered. A member of the mighty Big 5, they are fearsome yet stunning in appearance, combined with their inspiring hunting tactics and formidable roar, it’s very clear why early societies referred to them as “King of the Beasts”. Today, lions are one of Africa’s most recognisable animals and for good reason: more than any other animal, they signify courage, strength, and power.

Let’s take a look at 7 of the most interesting facts you didn’t know about lions.

1. They’re very social

Lions are the most sociable of all the big cats. They live in groups called prides, which usually consists of 10 to 15 lions, with several adult females, their cubs, and up to 4 males. Some lion prides can be as large as 40 members!

2. They’re more hungry than thirsty

African lions live in terrains that can sometimes run short of water. So, it’s a good thing that they can meet their water requirements in other ways. As it is, lions’ bodies are highly adapted to surviving when water isn’t easy to come by. Some lions, like those living in the Kalahari Desert, have also been known to drink from vegetation like tsamma melons when they can’t gain access to water. This isn’t commonly seen in other big cat species.

3. Raising the young ones makes for a family affair

Female lions often raise their cubs together. In fact, lion cubs will feed from any female within their pride that is producing milk. And, watching out for each other’s cubs is second nature for mother lions.

4. There’s purpose behind the noise

Lions can recognise each other’s roars like humans can recognise each other’s voices, and use them as a means of communication over long distances. Males often, for example, roar when they are patrolling their territory in order to reassure females that they are safe.

5. Lionesses are the breadwinners

As they are smaller and more agile than males, lionesses use teamwork to bring their prey down. After a successful hunt, all the lions in the pride share the meal. But there is a pecking order, with the adult males eating first, followed by the lionesses, and finally the cubs.

6. They’ve got some lazy bones

Lions are undoubtedly the laziest of all the big cats, and have been known to sleep for between 16 and 20 hours every day. They generally tend to be most active after dusk with bursts of activity taking place until dawn, when hunting most frequently occurs.

7. They’re vulnerable

Almost 75% of African lion populations are in decline. With only around 20.000 left in the wild, they are officially considered vulnerable to extinction. Because they are so powerful and majestic, and have no natural predators, it is almost inconceivable that African lion numbers have fallen so dramatically in the last 30 years. The main threats are loss of territory, lion/human conflict, and poaching. As a traveler, you can do your part by traveling to national parks and game reserves that put resources toward protecting these beautiful mammals.

Lions are Africa’s ambassadors. If you’re after a wildlife experience unlike any other, seeing Africa’s lions should be at the top of your list. Get started with planning your journey of a lifetime.