The male lion's mane is the most recognisable feature of the species.

[11] It may have evolved around

320,000–190,000 years ago.[60] It grows downwards and backwards, covering most of the head,
neck, shoulders, and chest. The mane is typically brownish and tinged with yellow, rust, and black
hairs.[46] It starts growing when lions enter adolescence, when testosterone levels increase, and
reach their full size at around four years old.[61] Cool ambient temperatures in European and North
American zoos may result in a heavier mane.[62] On average, Asiatic lions have sparser manes than
African lions.[6