A study published yesterday in Scientific Reports questions the taxonomic status of the Cape lion (Panthera leo melanochaita), which was driven to extinction around 1860. For a long time, this large cat was considered a distinct subspecies, characterized by its striking black mane that extended over its shoulders and belly, as well as black-tipped ears. However, new research suggests that this perception is largely based on historical accounts and the limited number of skulls that have been examined.

In recent years, genetic studies have already cast doubt on the uniqueness of the Cape lion, showing that it is genetically indistinguishable from other lions in southern Africa. The current study reinforces these findings through a comprehensive analysis of morphological data, confirming that the morphological traits of the Cape lion are insufficient to classify it as a distinct subspecies.
Unlike previous studies, which often analyzed only a few Cape lion skulls, this new research is based on the largest sample to date, examining 22 skulls, including twelve adult specimens. This significantly enhances the reliability of the morphological analysis. The researchers found that the skull traits previously considered unique are not definitive, meaning the Cape lion cannot be distinguished from other southern African lions based on morphology.
In conclusion, the Cape lion does not possess unique characteristics that would qualify it as a distinct subspecies. Like the Barbary lion, which went extinct in the 1960s, the Cape lion is better understood as a regional variety or population. While earlier studies often assumed that the Cape lion was a unique subspecies, this new research takes a more neutral approach, analyzing all available samples from the lion’s supposed range without presupposing its subspecies status.
Human activities led to the extinction of the Cape lion
The Cape lion was native to the southernmost tip of Africa, primarily in the former Cape Province, which today includes the provinces of Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and parts of Northern Cape. Its range extended to the Orange Free State, and it mainly inhabited the savannas and bushlands of South Africa.
The extinction of the Cape lion in the mid-19th century was largely driven by human activities. European settlers hunted the lions intensively, while the expansion of agriculture destroyed their habitat and severely reduced their prey. Trophy hunting and the deliberate killing of lions by farmers to protect their livestock also contributed significantly to their eradication.
Similar to the Barbary lion, there are claims from private individuals and institutions that Cape lions may still exist. In 2000, possible specimens were found in Russia and brought to South Africa for breeding. However, it is difficult to reliably identify these animals as Cape lions, as they are visually indistinguishable from other long-maned lions in captivity. The lions in modern zoos are typically descendants of animals captured in Africa long ago. Due to the mixing of different subspecies or populations in captivity, it is nearly impossible to differentiate them today.
Furthermore, we now understand that features like a dense, dark mane are often linked to cooler climates. Studies on zoo animals have shown that lions exposed to colder temperatures tend to develop more prominent manes. Additionally, factors such as diet, stress, and other environmental conditions influence mane growth.
Cultural and nostalgic notions shaped the subspecies
The study questions whether the classification of the Cape lion as a distinct subspecies is scientifically valid or whether it was influenced more by cultural and nostalgic ideas. Historically, the lion, with its majestic dark mane, was seen as a symbol of strength and uniqueness, granting it special status in South Africa’s natural history. Over time, this romanticized image was amplified, and it is likely that early researchers overemphasized these external traits, using them as a basis to classify the Cape lion as a separate subspecies.
However, the current study reveals that there are neither genetic nor morphological distinctions that clearly set the Cape lion apart from other lions in southern Africa. Rather than focusing on breeding a specific phenotype, such as the striking black mane, the researchers suggest shifting the focus to the conservation of all southern African lion populations. These should be seen as interconnected metapopulations, where genetic diversity and the exchange between groups are essential for the species’ survival. Strengthening the connectivity between populations could lead to greater stability and resilience in the long term.
In other words, instead of idealizing the Cape lion as a “unique” subspecies and potentially breeding selectively for traits like the black mane, it would be more beneficial to protect and preserve all lion populations in southern Africa as part of a larger, interconnected network.
Support this blog! If you enjoyed this post, please consider making a small donation. Every contribution, no matter how small, makes a difference. Your donation helps me keep the blog ad-free and without paywalls, ensuring that all readers have free access to the content. You can easily donate through the donate button. Every amount counts and is greatly appreciated! Thank you for your support!