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How large are adult female lions?

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A male lion — lion The distinguishing feature of a male lion (*Panthera leo*) is its mane, which makes the animal look larger and may serve to intimidate rivals or impress prospective mates.

Adult female lions, also known as lionesses, are smaller than their male counterparts. An adult female typically has a body length of 1.5 metres (about 5 feet), a shoulder height of 0.9–1.1 metres (3–3.5 feet), and a weight of 120–180 kg (265–400 pounds).1

These size differences are a form of sexual dimorphism, where males and females of the same species exhibit distinct variations in size, structure, or appearance. In the case of lions, the larger size of the male is often associated with the presence of a mane, which can help intimidate rivals and attract mates.21