Panthera leo leo, commonly known as the African lion, is a subspecies of lion found primarily in sub-Saharan Africa. They are known for their distinctive mane, which varies in color and size among males. African lions are social animals, living in groups called prides, which typically consist of related females, their cubs, and a few males. These lions are apex predators, primarily hunting large herbivores such as zebras and wildebeests. They play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystem. Unfortunately, their populations are declining due to habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching, leading to their classification as vulnerable by the IUCN.