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The Milwaukee County Zoo is home to a beautiful pride of African lions, one of the most iconic species in the world. Whether your kids are big cat fans or you’re planning a family visit soon, here’s everything you need to know about the zoo’s lionesses—plus kid-friendly facts and tips for spotting them.
African lions live in the Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country, located just past the Family Farm area. This is the same area where you’ll find the Amur tigers.
👉 Planning a full zoo day? Don’t miss our Quick Guide to the Milwaukee County Zoo for tips, maps, and must-see exhibits.
Quick Answers Parents Are Searching For
Where are the lions located?
Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country (turn left at the entrance and walk past the Family Farm)
When are they most active?
Usually morning hours, especially on cooler days
Who lives in the pride?
Lioness Patty and her daughters Amira & Eloise
Are African lions endangered?
They are listed as Vulnerable, with populations declining in the wild
Can kids see the lions up close?
Yes — both indoor and outdoor viewing areas offer great visibility
Meet the Milwaukee County Zoo’s Lioness Trio
Patty (Mom)
- Species: African Lion
- Arrived in Milwaukee in 2020 from Sedgwick County Zoo
- Known for being a little shy but incredibly smart (keepers say she “knows more behaviors than most of the other cats”)
- Eats ~4.5 lbs of meat daily, plus whole prey and larger cuts on enrichment days
- Can be identified by the straight edge on her left ear, the result of a bite at a previous zoo
Amira & Eloise (Daughters)
- Born in 2017
- Arrived with Patty
- Often seen resting together or lounging in sunny spots
- Still playful and curious, especially in cooler weather
Fun Facts About African Lions (Kid-Friendly!)
1. Lions Live in Prides
They are the only big cats that live in large social groups called prides, usually made up of mothers, sisters, cousins, cubs, and a few males.
2. Females Are the Hunters
Lionesses do most of the hunting, working together to bring down prey like antelope, zebra, buffalo, and wildebeest.
3. They’re Incredibly Strong
Female lions weigh 270–400 lbs, and males can reach 550 lbs.
4. Cubs Learn by Watching Their Moms
Cub behaviors—like climbing, stalking, and pouncing—come from mimicking adult lionesses.
5. Lions Are Great Nap-Takers
They can sleep up to 20 hours a day (a fact kids love).
6. A Lion’s Roar Can Travel Miles
Their roar can be heard up to 5 miles away — the loudest of any big cat.
7. No Two Lions Look Alike
Just like fingerprints, each lion has a unique pattern of whisker spots.
8. Lions Are Considered “Vulnerable”
Their populations have declined due to habitat loss and conflict with humans.
Quick Facts (From the Zoo’s Species Sheet)
- Native Range: Grassy plains & savannahs of sub-Saharan Africa
- Diet: Antelope, zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, gazelles, and warthogs
- Weight: Males 330–550 lbs; Females 270–400 lbs
- Lifespan: ~15 years
- Conservation Status: Vulnerable
- Habitat at MCZ: Florence Mila Borchert Big Cat Country
Tips for Seeing the Lions on Your Visit
- Go early: They’re more active in the morning, especially before feeding time.
- Watch for shade: On hot days, the lions nap in shaded areas or near the indoor viewing windows.
- Visit during cooler months: Cold weather can make them more active.
- Bring binoculars: Kids love getting a close-up view of their faces, paws, and whisker spots.
Related Milwaukee With Kids Guides
- A Family Guide to the Milwaukee County Zoo
https://www.mkewithkids.com/post/2018-09-12-quick-guide-milwaukee-county-zoo/ - Penguins of the Pacific: New Habitat Guide
https://www.mkewithkids.com/post/penguins-of-the-pacific/ - White Tiger Facts for Kids
https://www.mkewithkids.com/post/white-tigers-facts-for-kids/ - Tiger Facts for Kids
https://www.mkewithkids.com/post/tiger-facts-for-kids/
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
