Lions

Lions at Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo

They’re known as the “King of the Jungle,” but lions don’t live in jungles—they roam the sun-drenched savannas of Africa, from the Serengeti to South Africa. Lions are one of the only social cats, living in tight-knit family groups called prides, usually led by a dominant male and made up of related females and their cubs.

In the wild

At Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo, we’ve created a naturalistic lion habitat inspired by the African plains—featuring open space, tall grass, and shaded spots for rest and observation.

How We Keep Our Lions Thriving

Scent Enrichment

We offer tough enrichment toys filled with stimulating scents like cinnamon, clove and pumpkin pie—encouraging natural hunting and play behaviours.
Cool Treats

On hot days, our lions enjoy icy blocks with raw meat or fish hidden inside—keeping them refreshed while encouraging them to use their teeth, claws, and smarts.
Voluntary Vet Care

Using sound cues and positive reinforcement, our lions move between spaces and even take part in their own health checks—stepping on scales and engaging with keepers without stress.

🐾 Come face-to-face with these incredible big cats during your visit to Hobart Zoo and Aquarium Zoo. Learn more at our daily keeper talks and see what makes these apex predators so extraordinary.