Lions, Lions and Lions, Oh My! 15 Photos of the Most Majestic Big Cats Found Throughout Africa

Smithsonian magazine's associate photography editor Donny Bajohr and reporting intern Jess Daninhirsch compiled a photo essay featuring 15 images of lions from various African locations, captured by photographers including Lucas Maher, Amish Chhagan, Shaadi Faris, Yaron Schmid, Ryan Duncan, Hannah Korevaar, Natalie Williammee, Ariel Cao, Jacqueline Havriliak, Kate Moran, Paul Nash, Willem Kruger, Riznad Hussain, and Leighton Lum. The photographs, taken between 2008 and 2025, depict lions in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, Zambia, and South Africa, showcasing behaviors such as yawning, hunting, playing, and resting. The essay notes that the worldwide lion population is roughly 24,000, classifying them as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List, with threats including habitat destruction and human-wildlife conflict. Specific locations featured include Lake Nakuru National Park, Serengeti National Park, Masai Mara game reserve, Ngorongoro Crater, Okavango Delta, Maasai Mara National Reserve, and the Kij Kij watering hole. The collection aims to provide insight into the daily lives of lions, highlighting their majesty and playfulness. The article also includes a note about Smithsonian magazine's participation in affiliate link advertising programs.