Lions are large, social cats that live in family groups called prides, typically made up of related females, their cubs, and a small number of males. Native mainly to sub-Saharan Africa, they thrive in savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands. Lions are known for their cooperative hunting, with pride members working together to bring down prey, and for their strong social bonds, often seen resting, grooming, and playing together. They spend much of the day resting in the shade and are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, when they patrol their territory or hunt. You can spend many hours observing a single lion or a pride, and at any moment, you might be surprised by sudden activity. This gallery is a small collection of my encounters with lions through the years. They are truly unique creatures.