Fact Sheet
Lion
What Defenders is Doing to Help Lions
Defenders of Wildlife is working to pass legislation that would help conserve 15 species of great cats and rare canines that exist outside the U.S. In April 2009, the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Great Cats and Rare Canids Act (HR 411) aimed at conserving 15 of the world’s rarest wild cats and canids, including lions. The bill now needs approval by the Senate before being made law.
More on Lion: What You Can Do to Help Lions »
More on African Lion:
Fast Facts
Height: 4 feet (1.2m) (males).
Length: 5-8 feet (1.5-2.4m) (males).
Weight 330-500 lbs (150-227 kg) (males).
In general, female lions are smaller than males.
Lifespan: 10-14 years.
Top speed: 50 mph (81 km/hr), for short distances
Range Map
Click to enlarge » Protection Status
IUCN Red List:
Vulnerable
CITES:
Appendix II
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In the Magazine
These iconic predators—who once ruled from the southern tip of Africa all the way to northwestern India—are at risk of extinction by 2020.
In the Magazine
It’s hard to believe a population can plummet so quickly. In the 1940s, an estimated 450,000 lions roamed across most of Africa and parts of Asia.
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On the Blog
March 12, 2012 | 12.42 PM
February 22, 2012 | 10.37 AM