Lions, perhaps the most iconic of Africa's incredible wildlife. They grab peoples attention and fill countless stories and fables. They however are in deep trouble with many populations plummeting across the continent due to mans insatiable need for land to develop and through direct persecution when the lions tackle livestock or attack humans. While much focus has been given to the conservation of elephant and rhino, lions are equally in need of concerted conservation effort beyond South Africa's borders where populations are doing thriving in the protected landscapes. The last image shows a beautiful lioness from the West African population.