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Male lion in South Africa
A lion's lie-down
Have you ever wonder why lions star in ancient stories and myths from all over the world, yet are only found in scattered pockets of sub-Saharan Africa? It's because these proud predators once had a much wider swath to stalk. Long ago, lions were found not only throughout Africa, but across South and Central Asia, the Middle East and Southern Europe – possibly as far north as France. Though the passing of millennia has seen lions' numbers dwindle, their regal image still captivates people everywhere – even though these powerful cats are only active four hours a day, spending the rest of it resting like this king.
A lion's lie-down
Have you ever wonder why lions star in ancient stories and myths from all over the world, yet are only found in scattered pockets of sub-Saharan Africa? It's because these proud predators once had a much wider swath to stalk. Long ago, lions were found not only throughout Africa, but across South and Central Asia, the Middle East and Southern Europe – possibly as far north as France. Though the passing of millennia has seen lions' numbers dwindle, their regal image still captivates people everywhere – even though these powerful cats are only active four hours a day, spending the rest of it resting like this king.
They may be fabled for their muscle and hustle, but lions actually lounge away most of their day.
© emson / iStock / Getty Images Plus 2026-09-11 08:45:51 :