The Atlas Lion is a subspecies of lion that once roamed the mountainous regions of North Africa, particularly in the Atlas Mountains. Known for their distinctive dark manes, these lions were larger than their African counterparts. They primarily hunted large herbivores and lived in small prides. By the early 20th century, the Atlas Lion faced severe population decline due to habitat loss and hunting. The last known wild Atlas Lion was killed in the 1940s, leading to their classification as extinct in the wild. Today, they are often referenced in discussions about conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.