A subspecies of lion, the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo leo) finds its origins in the Middle East and India and inhabits the sanctuary of the Gir Forest National Park. Currently, the population of this subspecies is approximately 500 to 600 living animals.
Differences between the Asiatic lion and the African lion include: shape and bone development of the head, a more moderate mane that leaves the top of the head and the ears exposed, and color variations of tawny to a sandy hue. Male Asiatic lions are solitary, often forming loose prides while female Asiatic lions form stronger and more numbered prides with other female lions and their cubs.
Asiatic Lions have a shoulder height between 30”-46” (76-117 cm), body length of 4’7”-6’5” (1.4-2 m), and weight in the range of 265-500 lb (120-250 kg). The tail of an Asiatic Lion is 30”-40” (76-102 cm) in length. Asiatic Lions have a typical lifespan of 12-18 years in the wild and 18-20 years in captivity.
A subspecies of lion, the Asiatic Lion (Panthera leo leo) finds its origins in the Middle East and India and inhabits the sanctuary of the Gir Forest National Park. Currently, the population of this subspecies is approximately 500 to 600 living animals.
Differences between the Asiatic lion and the African lion include: shape and bone development of the head, a more moderate mane that leaves the top of the head and the ears exposed, and color variations of tawny to a sandy hue. Male Asiatic lions are solitary, often forming loose prides while female Asiatic lions form stronger and more numbered prides with other female lions and their cubs.
Asiatic Lions have a shoulder height between 30”-46” (76-117 cm), body length of 4’7”-6’5” (1.4-2 m), and weight in the range of 265-500 lb (120-250 kg). The tail of an Asiatic Lion is 30”-40” (76-102 cm) in length. Asiatic Lions have a typical lifespan of 12-18 years in the wild and 18-20 years in captivity.
