Who is endangering lions?

* Habitat loss and fragmentation: As human populations grow, so does the need for land for agriculture, housing, and other development. This has resulted in the loss and fragmentation of lion habitat, making it difficult for them to find food, mates, and shelter.

* Hunting and poaching: Lions are hunted for their meat, fur, and body parts, which are used in traditional medicines. Poaching is a major threat to lions, and it is estimated that as many as 1,000 lions are killed each year.

* Human-wildlife conflict: Lions often come into conflict with humans when they prey on livestock. This can lead to retaliatory killings by farmers and herders.

* Disease: Lions are susceptible to a variety of diseases, including canine distemper, feline AIDS, and tuberculosis. These diseases can spread quickly through lion populations and cause significant mortality.

* Climate change: Climate change is also a threat to lions, as it is leading to changes in their habitat, prey base, and disease prevalence.