The cat's whiskers: new way of counting lions could boost conservation efforts

Scientists say current methods of estimating lion numbers could be drastically wrong, with serious consequences for the big cats

From widescreen high-definition wildlife documentaries to food brands, royal crests, sporting teams and Disney movies, the lion is one of the most appropriated and revered animals on the planet.

But this reverence sits in contrast to the falling numbers of the living, breathing muscular cats in Africa.