African lions are the largest and most powerful of the African carnivores.
Male lion have a tawny mane, which gradually grows darker with age, whereas female lions do not have manes. The lion's mane makes it appear larger and more impressive. Manes are thought to assist the male in attracting females at mating time as well as frightening off rival males. Cubs are camouflaged with a slightly spotted coat at birth and gradually turn a tawny color by the end of their first year. Currently, there are fragmented populations in western, northeastern, eastern and southern Africa.