Recent estimates suggest there are around 24,000 wild lions in the world. While this may seem like a big number, the reality is that lion numbers have declined significantly in recent years. Hunting, deforestation and conflict with humans have all led to lions being classified as ‘vulnerable’ on the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species. Attempts are being made to save these beautiful creatures but here are six notable examples of endangered and extinct lions. 

1. Asiatic Lion - Endangered

Listed as endangered, the only population of Asiatic lions lives in the Gir Forest National Park in Gujarat, India. While conservation efforts are underway to help the Asiatic lion thrive, they remain at risk for disease and other factors such as natural disasters. There are approximately 600 Asiatic lions left in their natural habitat.

2. West African Lion - Critically Endangered 

The West African lion has been identified as critically endangered, with only 120-374 estimated to be living in the wild. The once thriving population has been reduced to four populations clinging on in Nigeria, Benin, Niger and Burkina Faso. In Niokolo-Koba national park in Senegal, only 29 lions remain in the forests that surround the tributary to the Gambia River. Main threats to the West African lion include poaching and habitat loss.
 

3. Central African Lion - Vulnerable to Critically Endangered

A fragmented population of lions lives in Central Africa including Cameroon and Chad. Habitat destruction and human-lion conflict are two of the main reasons this lion species is dwindling. When a lion’s natural habitat is lost they end up roaming around more build-up areas and are often killed out of fear.

4. Barbary Lion - Extinct in the Wild 

Once found in Northern African countries such as Egypt and Morocco, the Barbary lion is now completely extinct in the wild. The lion story of this species came to an end in the early twentieth century due to overhunting and, once again, habitat loss. Efforts are currently underway to bring lions with Barbary lineage into captivity for breeding programs.

5. Cape Lion - Extinct 

The Cape Lion, named due to its presence on the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, is now extinct. This lion was well-known for its striking black mane and was driven to extinction primarily by European settlers in the mid-nineteenth century. 

6. European Lion - Extinct

Believe it or not, lions used to roam Europe in prehistoric times in regions such as the Balkans. The European lion became extinct due to climate change and habitat competition at the time.

If you’re looking for a lion story with a moral, don’t miss The Lion Inside play, which is touring the UK this summer. A story about a lion and a mouse, it explores the themes of self-belief, acceptance and acknowledging personal strengths, and features stunning puppetry and a skilled cast. At 60 minutes long with no interval, it’s aimed at children aged three and up. Book your theatre tickets to this production today.