Species | Panthera leo |
Gestation Period | 110 days (approximately 3.5 months) |
Litter Size | 1 to 4 cubs, though litters of up to 6 cubs can occur |
Birthing Interval | Typically every 2 years, but can be more frequent if cubs do not survive |
Birth Season | Year-round, but often synchronized within a pride |
Cub Weight at Birth | 1 to 2 kg (2.2 to 4.4 lbs) |
Weaning Age | Around 6 to 7 months |
Independence Age | 1.5 to 2 years |
Cub Mortality Rate | High, around 50% in the first year due to various factors such as predation and starvation |
Maternal Behavior | Females often leave the pride to give birth and stay hidden for 4 to 6 weeks with their cubs |
Social Structure | Cubs are introduced to the pride after a few weeks; females often share cub-rearing responsibilities |
Reproductive Age | Females: 2 to 4 years; Males: 3 to 4 years |
Lifespan | 10 to 14 years in the wild; can reach up to 20 years in captivity |
Conservation Status | Vulnerable (IUCN Red List), with threats including habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict |