Lions breed every 18 to 26 months in the wild and lions in captivity breed annually. The mating may last up to 3 days. The mating will begin by the female making a kill and bringing it to the male for consumption and energy. The gestation period is about 110 days and 1 to 4 cubs are usually born. Lions in captivity can live up to 30 years; male lions in the wild live about 12 years and females 16.