Lion

The lion (Panthera leo), often called the "king of the jungle," is one of the most iconic and majestic predators in the animal kingdom. Native to the grasslands and savannas of Africa, lions are also found in India’s Gir Forest. These powerful cats live in social groups called prides, consisting of several females, their cubs, and a few dominant males.

Lions are apex predators, hunting animals such as zebras, wildebeests, and antelopes. Females do most of the hunting, while males protect the pride’s territory. With their loud roars, which can be heard up to 8 kilometers away, lions communicate dominance and coordinate with their group. However, habitat loss and poaching have caused a significant decline in lion populations, requiring conservation initiatives.