Scientific Name: Panthera leo
Size: Head and body 8.5-10.8 feet (2.6-3.3m); tail 2-3.3 feet (60-100cm)
Weight: 330-530 pounds (150-240kg)
Distribution: S Sahara to S Africa, excluding Congo rain forest belt; NW India (a remnant population only in Gir Forest Sanctuary)
Habitat: Mainly savanna, grassy plains; also woodland, semidesert
Diet: Wildebeests, impalas, antelope, zebras, buffalo, wild pigs, and other hoofed mammals
Reproduction: After a gestation period of 15-17 weeks, female gives birth to up to 6 cubs
Longevity: About 15 years (to 24 in captivity)
Population: Estimated at below 10,000
Status: Vulnerable