How to identify lion
- Plain tawny coat
- Black tuft at the end of the tail
- Broad head and powerful forequarters
Do not identify from one clue alone.
Distance, age, sex, season and light can change an animal’s appearance. Combine several visible features and keep “not sure” as a valid answer.
Behaviour and habitat
What you may notice
Lives in prides and male coalitions
What you may notice
Often rests through the heat of the day
What you may notice
Activity commonly increases in cooler hours
Where it fits
Savanna, open woodland and grassland with cover and prey.
What can it be confused with?
A distant tawny animal may be a lioness, young male or even a large antelope. Confirm the cat-like gait, head and tail tuft.
View it responsibly
Remain inside your vehicle, keep voices low and leave room for the animals to move away from the road.
Location protection applies.
Wild This Way withholds or generalises sensitive wildlife positions. Never add a road number, landmark or exact pin to a public post.