Lion

Description:

The male lion is a big cat, with its distinctive mane, that lives from 10-14 years in the wild and, at times, to over 20 years in captivity. The male lion watches the offspring while the lioness does most of the hunting in a pride, or group, of lions. Lions are primarily nocturnal hunters.

Habitat:

Lions range throughout much of Africa, with the exception of in the Sahara, and into parts of southeastern Europe, as well as in some of the Middle East, to include as far east as India. However, predominant populations of lions today are found mostly in wildlife reserves and national parks.

Notes:

This juvenile lion is an orphan that was seen at the Rhino & Lion Park outside Johannesburg. I was able - after signing the most complete disclaimer/waiver/hold harmless agreement that I have ever completed - to step into the half-acre enclosure with this and one other juvenile lion, along with a groundskeeper, Emily. She became my mentor for becoming South Africa's newest lion tamer! She also took a few images of me with the lions that may be seen on my website: www.rustic41creations.com.