The lion (Panthera leo), a large, burly cat (family Felidae), is second only to the tiger. The lion, like the "king of beasts", is considered one of the most famous wild animals since ancient times. Lions are more active at night and live in a variety of habitats but prefer grasslands, savannas, dense scrub, and open woodlands. Historically, it spread throughout most of Europe, Asia and Africa, but is now mainly found in parts of sub-Saharan Africa. The isolated population of about 650 Asian lions form a slightly smaller subspecies that lives under strict protection in the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in India.

The lion is very distinctive, easily recognizable by its mane, and its face is one of the most recognizable animal symbols in human culture. The lion's roar is one of the most terrifying sounds in the animal kingdom. If you're in the African savannah and hear this sound, you might want to start running!