Lion

Panthera leo

Lions eat everything from tortoises to giraffes, but tend to hunt the prey they grew up eating, and food choices differ among prides. Lions are the only truly sociable cats. Prides include from 2 or 3 to 40 lions. Pride members perform a greeting ritual upon meeting; they rub their heads and sides together, with tails looped high, while making friendly moaning sounds. Females are lifelong residents of their mothers' territories, unless food is too scarce and some are forced to leave.

Look For : A very large, robust cat, with a smooth tan coat. Tail long, with black tassel at tip. Male develops mane beginning in third year; varies individually from blond to black. Cub has brownish spots that fade by 3 months but may persist on belly as adult.

Length : Body 5-8' long, tail 24-40"; 268-572 lb.

Habitat : Grasslands and savannas; woodlands and dense bush.

Range : Africa, south of the Sahara.