White Lion

Hi! I’m a White Lion

White Lions are rare in the wild however small numbers are found in some wildlife reserves in South Africa. White lions are not a separate subspecies and they are not albinos. They have a condition known as leucism (pronounced ‘lukism’), caused by a recessive gene. It is simply a reduction in the colour pigments of the skin. Strictly speaking we should call them white lions, but more correctly ‘blonde’ lions.

The National Zoo & Aquarium is home to 2 White Lions, brother and sister, Jake and Mischka.

White Lion Facts

Taxonomy

Panthera leo

Population Movement

Decreasing

Current Animals

Jake, Mischka

Life Span (captive)

18-20 years

Weight

120-225kg

Reproduction

White lions reach sexual maturity between ages three and four. Most white lions are bred and born in captivity, usually in zoos. Those in captivity may mate on a yearly basis, while those in the wild mate about every two years.

Conservation Status

Vulnerable

Group Count

2

Life Span (wild)

10-15 years

Size

1.6-2m, with a 70-90cm tail

Gestation

110 days

Distribution

Greater Timbavati region and Central Kruger Park in South Africa.