I would not have known it if National Geographic hadn’t sent an email notice, but it’s worth mentioning that today is World Lion Day!
In their words…….
“Today is World Lion Day, a day of celebrating the fearsome roars, handsome manes, and adorable cubs of one of the most iconic animals in the world. Lions are incredible creatures: athletic powerhouses and apex predators.
They’re also facing dizzying declines in their population that they are powerless to stop.
Even one lion killed can destabilize an entire region’s prides. And these days, poaching, retaliatory killings, and habitat loss are killing off lion after lion.”
So in our brittle world even the king of beasts is under threat.
Time to go out and hug your local lion……
Mostly Birding 
I would love to hug one,however there are not a lot in rural Devon..
I suppose not!
Thank you for letting us know – lovely photographs.
Love those lions – surprised that Nat Geo didn’t mention hunting as one of the prime reasons for species decline.
They are such magnificent creatures – hope to see some when we go to Kruger next week (a last minute birthday treat booking)