The majestic Lion is the legendary ruler of the animal kingdom. Revered for its strength and bravery, the Lion has been a symbol of supremacy since the beginning of recorded history. It is not the largest of animals, its skills as a hunter are in fact deeply flawed. There is the undoubted fierceness of the Lion in battle and in destroying its prey.

And then there is that roar, a low grumble building in intensity, used to signify territoriality and power. The Lion has learned how to make this roar send a vibrating signal throughout its domain, literally making the earth quake. And then, equally impressive, is the lions catlike aura of intelligence. For such things and more, does the lion justly claim its crown - a symbol of superiority.

Examining the prides intricate social hierarchy, we see that the life of a Lion family can involve both brutality and great kindness of generosity.

THE HISTORY OF THE LION:

The family name for cats is feliodae. Under this family heading are three genera, or groupings:

1. Panthera - lions, leopards etc
2. Acinonyx - the only member is the cheetah
3.Felis - all smaller cats, wild and domestic.

Panthera leo - lions
Panthera pardus - leopard
Panthera tigris - tigers etc

In the past Lions were found in Europa, Asia and Africa. Vanished sub species include the Cape Lion, expired in 1865 and the Barbary Lion in 1860, although traces of the bloodlines of the Barbary are still carried by some lions in captivity. The Persian Lion of Asia in 1930. Almost all the Lions of India - called Gir lions. Surviving Lions are now Sub-Sahara African species.

1. The Mosia Lions in Central Eastern Africa
2. The Senegales Lions is found in Western Africa
3. The Angolan and Rhodesian lions as well as the well known lions of The Kalahari Dessert.

2.