In this quick tutorial you'll learn how to draw a Lion in 6 easy steps - great for kids and novice artists.
The images above represent how your finished drawing is going to look and the steps involved.
Below are the individual steps - you can click on each one for a High Resolution printable PDF version.
At the bottom you can read some interesting facts about the Lion.
Make sure you also check out any of the hundreds of drawing tutorials grouped by category.
How to Draw a Lion - Step-by-Step Tutorial
Step 1: First draw the snout. Make three separate equal sized bumps for the nose and mouth. The top part of the snout will be a bit longer than the bottom part.
Step 2: Next draw the small eye near the top line of the snout. Draw the top part of the mane with a curved line from the top of the snout back. Draw the bottom part of the mane from the bottom of the mouth angled down. Join the two lines with shaggy or bumpy line.
Step 3: Draw the triangle shaped ear in the mane. It does not go outside the line of the head. Add squiggly lines in the mane to create fur markings.
Step 4: Draw a long straight line for the proud back. It will curve down just slightly at the rump.
Step 5: Right below the mane draw a short line down to make the front of the front leg. Draw the paw and bring the line back up to about halfway up the mane line. From this line draw the curved belly line back to the front line for the hind leg. The hind leg is wider at the top than the bottom. The back paw is angled back away from the body. Join up the back line of the leg with the rump line.
Step 6: Add the other front leg right where the back line of the first front leg ends. The other front leg is bent back as if the lion is walking. Add the other hind leg directly in front of the first hind leg. Finish by drawing a long thin tail with a tuft of fur at the end.
Interesting Facts about Lions
Female lions, which are called lionesses, are responsible for hunting for their pride, a group of lions. They prey on animals such as zebras, wildebeests, and buffalo. Male lions protect their territory and guard the cubs while the lionesses are hunting.
Did you know?
- Lionesses give birth to about four to six cubs at a time. The cubs are born in a den.
- Male lions are known for their large manes. The manes usually become darker as the lions grow older.
- Lions spend the majority of their day sleeping. They could sleep for about 16 to 20 hours everyday. Sometimes they are found sleeping in trees, as they are good climbers.
- A lion’s roar keeps predators at bay and could be heard up to 5 miles away. Lions can sense a predator up to one mile away.
- Male and female lions rub against each other as a way to bond with each other.
- Lions in the wild could live up to 10 to 15 years of age. Lions in captivity could live up until they are 25 years old.
Lions can live without drinking water for about 4 to 5 days. Lions have been on display at zoos since the 18th century.
How to Draw A Lion – Quick Step-by-Step Tutorial