How many African lions are there in the wild?

As of 2014, there are less than 21,000 African lions in the wild. The lion population has been reduced by 50 percent since the 1950s.

Lions used to live throughout most of Africa. Now they are only found in the southern part of the Sahara desert and areas of eastern and southern Africa.

Lions live in large groups, called prides. Prides include up to three male lions, a dozen or so female lions, and their offspring. They are the only member of the cat family to live in groups.

Lions were also once found in Greece, the Middle East and northern India. The African lion's protection status is classified as Vulnerable.