Lions are Africa's majestic icons, commanding awe and reverence in the wild, and are one of the most widely recognised animal symbols across human cultures. They are often crowned as the kings and queens of the animal kingdom. They are top predators playing a critical role in a healthy, balanced ecosystem. They help manage large herbivore populations, which in turn helps us manage vegetation.

The lion is the most social of all wild cat species, living in groups called prides. The social bonds allow them to hunt cooperatively as a group where lionesses stalk and ambush their prey and also allow for communal rearing of clubs.

As conservationists, we find ourselves at a critical crossroads. The lions that once roamed freely across vast expanses now face unprecedented challenges. Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching are rapidly depleting populations in some parts of their range. The need to conserve these magnificent creatures transcends mere sentiment; it's an urgent call to safeguard biodiversity and preserve the delicate balance of ecosystems.

It is estimated that there are only 23,000 lions remaining in the wild. These numbers are incredibly low, and it is up to us to help protect this iconic species by working to make human-lion coexistence more sustainable by building supportive partnerships between communities, NGO's, and government institutions. These partnerships improve the collective management of protected areas and equitable access to natural resources and develop communities that are safe, healthy, and have socio-economic opportunities.

We need your support to create a future for people and nature

Make a symbolic adoption of a lion today to show your love and support for our wildlife and wild spaces in South Africa.

What is WWF doing?

WWF has been involved in species conservation and addressing threats to wildlife since the 1960s. More recently we work closely with rural communities who live near to major wildlife areas. Our influence in wildlife conservation policies assists in balancing environmental goals against social and economic needs. By empowering people, we enable communities to benefit from – and value – wildlife.

This is part of our holistic approach towards ensuring that wildlife is valued by people and able to thrive within functioning well-managed landscapes.

How does the symbolic adoption work?

First of all: thank you. You’re choosing something different. This is a special gift because it will help protect the beautiful and sometimes fragile environments that surrounds us – for both people and nature.

This is a perfect gift for animal lovers, environmentalists or simply people with a big heart.

What you get

Certificate

A digital symbolic adoption certificate.

Photograph

A beautiful digital photograph.

Cuddly toy

An optional soft toy to love forever. *Toy may vary from image shown.

Regular updates

We'll keep you updated on how you're supporting our vital work including sending you adoption updates two to three times a year.

Did you know?

On average, male lions weigh 190kg and females weigh 126kg.

Male lions are the only cats that have manes. A fully developed mane covers a lion's neck down to its shoulders. Manes tend to darken with age - interestingly lion noses also do and are an easy way of determining a lion's age.

A lion's roar can be heard from over 8kms away.

Lions are the only known cat species where individuals roar together, and their calling sequence usually lasts about 40 seconds. They will roar together to mark their territory - a roar can be heard from over 8kms away.