Breeding and Mortality of African Lion (Panthera leo leo Linnaeus 1758) at Bahawalpur Zoo, Punjab, Pakistan

P RESENT study was conducted in order to estimate the breeding potential and mortality of African lion ( Panthera leo leo , Linnaeus 1758) in captivity. Recorded data by the experts of zoo management for the period 2003 to 2011 and by research worker for the period 2012 through 2015 was included in the study. During study period, a total of 29 cubs were produced including 12 males and 17 females. During this period, 12 animals died including 7 males and 5 females. Among these, 2 were adults and 10 were young ones. The number of breeding animals (pairs) varied during this period. Estrus cycle in lioness ranged from 4-7 days and gestation period lasted for 110 days. Old age with related ailments was the cause of death in adults. Premature and underweight births, avoidance of females to adapt offspring, infanticide, and bacterial infections were the causes of infant mortality. As the observations during study period showed a good breeding outcome of African lion in the form of 29 cubs with a maxima of 6 cubs per annum and the mortality rate is less than that, therefore, it is rational to conclude that big cats like Panthera leo leo can breed successfully in captivity. It is concluded from this study that African lion in captivity has optimal breeding potential and the conservation status of this highly threatened species could be improved.