Female lions, known as lionesses, are the primary hunters in a pride. They work together to catch prey, which can include animals like zebras and wildebeests. Lionesses are smaller and more agile than male lions, allowing them to be effective hunters. Lionesses are also responsible for caring for the young. They usually give birth to a litter of 2 to 4 cubs after a gestation period of about 110 days. The cubs rely on their mothers for food and protection until they are old enough to join the pride's activities.