Lion
Panthera leo
About Lion
A large social big-cat found in savanna and open woodland; apex predator in Tanzania's national parks.
Physical Characteristics
Muscular, tawny coat; males often have manes; 150–250 kg.
Habitat
Savanna, open woodlands, grasslands and kopje areas.
Diet
Carnivorous — medium to large ungulates (wildebeest, zebra, buffalo).
Behavior
Social, hunts in groups (prides); active mostly at dawn/dusk.
Quick Facts
Best Viewing Times
Early morning and late afternoon; dry season (June–October).
Best Viewing Locations
Seronera (Serengeti), Ngorongoro Crater floor, Ruaha river valleys.
Where to Find Lion
Katavi National Park
Katavi, Tanzania, Rukwa
Remote wilderness with spectacular seasonal wildlife concentrations.
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Mikumi National Park
Mikumi (near Morogoro), Tanzania, Morogoro
Accessible savanna park east of the Udzungwa mountains, good for short safaris.
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Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro, Tanzania, Arusha
UNESCO World Heritage area containing the Ngorongoro Crater.
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Nyerere National Park (Selous)
Southern Tanzania, Lindi / Pwani / Morogoro
Large southern park (formerly Selous) with riverine habitats and large wildlife populations.
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Ruaha National Park
Ruaha, Tanzania, Iringa / Dodoma
Vast remote park famed for predators and large elephant herds.
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