Lions are the only truly social cats, living in groups called prides. A typical pride consists of related lionesses, their cubs, and a few adult males. The size of a pride can range from a few individuals to more than 20 lions.

Female lions, or lionesses, are the primary hunters of the pride. They work together in coordinated efforts to stalk and ambush prey, such as zebras, wildebeest, and antelopes. Male lions usually join in for larger kills.

Lions are incredibly strong and can bring down prey much larger than themselves. Their muscular build and powerful forelimbs enable them to take down large herbivores with a combination of strength and strategy.

Lions are not the fastest runners in the animal kingdom, but they can reach speeds of up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) in short bursts. This speed helps them in chasing and capturing their prey.

Lions are primarily nocturnal animals, meaning they are more active during the night. They spend a significant portion of the day resting and conserving energy, with lionesses often taking turns to guard the pride.

Male lions play a vital role in defending the pride's territory from other competing males. They use their powerful roars as a form of communication to intimidate rivals and establish their dominance.

The roar of a lion can be heard from a distance of up to 5 miles (8 kilometers). Roaring serves various purposes, including communication within the pride, asserting dominance, and attracting potential mates.

The population of lions has significantly decreased over the past century, primarily due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans. Conservation efforts are underway to protect and preserve these iconic big cats.