African lion (Panthera leo) is a carnivorous mammal belonging to the Felidae family and is the second largest cat after the Siberian tiger. Male lions can weigh up to 190 kg and stand over 1.20 meters tall at the shoulder, while female lions can weigh up to 130 kg and stand close to 1 meter tall at the shoulder. Lions have a distinctive appearance, with a yellowish coat, a mane in males, rounded ears, and a long, bushy tail.
The natural habitat of the African lion spans most of the African continent, from Senegal and Guinea in the west to Ethiopia and Somalia in the east, and south to South Africa. Lions prefer open areas with grasses and shrubs, although they can also be found in forests and savannahs.
In the Anthropocene, the population of African lions has been especially affected by human pressure. Habitat loss due to human expansion, poaching for body parts for medicinal use, and the illegal trade in trophy hunting have all contributed to significant declines in the African lion population. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), African lions are considered a vulnerable species and their population has been reduced by 43% in the last 21 years.
However, there are also efforts to protect and conserve the African lion population. The creation of national parks and reserves has helped preserve the natural habitats of lions, while the implementation of laws and international agreements have tried to reduce poaching and illegal trade. In addition, education and awareness projects have been carried out to promote peaceful coexistence between humans and lions in areas where their habitats overlap.
Approximate measurements of the Lion:
- 1:24 scale - 90mm
