CAUTION: Staring at this photo of Bisky may cause you to fall in love with African lions. So is our post Zoo Knoxville social media.

There is more to African lions than just that cute face! While Bisky is presently at just 38 pounds, he will grow to be one of the largest cats in Africa, a cat known as the only truly social big cat, living in family groups called prides. A pride often consists of related females, their cubs, and one or more adult males. Bisky lives with Dad, Maji, and Mom, Zahra.

These lions are powerfully built predators with strong jaws, sharp teeth, and muscular bodies designed for hunting and defending territory. While adult males are recognized by their impressive manes, each lion’s appearance is unique, with variations in mane color, size, and facial features.

Lions spend much of their day resting and conserving energy, often sleeping or lounging for up to 20 hours. Bisky does tend to lounge around a lot, but he is also very curious and active at times.

As carnivores, lions hunt and feed on a variety of prey species, including antelope, zebra, and other hoofed animals. Obviously, we don’t feed him our other zoo inhabitants, but he does have a protein diet he is used to.

Zoo Knoxville supports efforts through AZA’s African Lion SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) program, which works to protect wild lion populations through conservation partnerships, research, education, and programs that help people and lions safely coexist in shared landscapes.

Zoo Knoxville’s mission is to deliver dynamic guest experiences while inspiring action to save wildlife and wild places. For more information on Zoo Knoxville’s commitment to wildlife conservation, events, membership, and planning your visit, go here.

Located at 3500 Knoxville Zoo Dr.,37914, Zoo Knoxville is open every day 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

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