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Great Cats
The Great Cats exhibit on Lion/Tiger Hill features Sumatran tigers and African lions—living, breathing, roaring great cats. They are ambassadors for their wild relatives, and for the Zoo’s conservation and science initiatives for tigers, lions, and many other cats, which, even if not great in size, are still great!
Lions and tigers are on exhibit between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., daily (weather permitting).
Tiger Update: Tiger Breeding Continues
This spring has been quiet at the Great Cats unit, now that the lions have left, though Damai and Kavi continue to get along well.
Read more
Lion Update: John Leaves for Cincinnati
Our young lion John is growing up and moving on!
Read more
Saving Lions in Zoos
SCBI and National Zoo scientists are using science to improve the ways lions live and breed in North American Zoos. Read about our lion research.
Adopt a lion or a whole litter of cubs!
The lion cams were generously provided by CGH Technologies, Inc. allowing viewers around the world to watch the lions and other wildlife at the Zoo.
Infrared illuminator for the lion cam donated by ANVS.
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Lions | Lion Cubs 5W | Lion Cubs 3W
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Tiger Outside I
Lots of Cats
Cheetahs live at the Zoo's Cheetah Conservation Station. Tigers and lions live at Great Cats. Fishing cats and clouded leopards live on Asia Trail. Learn about cats at the Zoo.
Cat Conservation
Large or small, cats are graceful, specialized, and powerful animals. Yet, they are among the most endangered. Zoo conservation biologists are working with colleagues on lions’ home ground in Africa, and tigers’ in Asia, to develop the scientific understanding necessary for effective conservation. Zoo scientists are studying the ecology, behavior, and reproductive biology of tigers, lions, and many other cat species, including cheetahs, clouded leopards, and fishing cats.
