Lion (CR 3)

Large Animal
Alignment: Always neutral
Initiative: +3 (Dex); Senses: low-light vision, scent, Listen +5, and Spot +5

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AC: 15 (-1 size, +3 Dex, +3 natural), touch 12, flat-footed 12
Hit Dice: 5d8+10 (32 hp)
Fort +6, Ref +7, Will +2

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Speed: 40 ft.
Space: 10 ft./5 ft.
Base Attack +3; Grapple +12
Attack: Claw +7 melee
Full Attack: 2 claws +7 melee and bite +2 melee
Damage: Claw 1d4+5, bite 1d8+2
Special Attacks/Actions: Pounce, improved grab, rake 1d4+2

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Abilities: Str 21, Dex 17, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6
Special Qualities:
Feats: Alertness; Run
Skills: Balance +7, Hide +3*, Listen +5, Move Silently +11, and Spot +5
Advancement: 6-8 HD (Large)

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Climate/Terrain: Warm plains
Organization: Solitary, pair or pride (6-10)
Treasure/Possessions: None

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Source: Monster Manual

The statistics presented here describe a male African lion, which is 5 to 8 feet long and weighs 330 to 550 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, but use the same statistics.

Combat

Pounce (Ex): If a lion leaps upon a foe during the first round of combat, it can make a full attack even if it has already taken a move action.

Improved Grab (Ex): To use this ability, the lion must hit with its bite attack. If it gets a hold, it can rake.

Rake (Ex): A lion that gets a hold can make two rake attacks (+7 melee) with its hind legs for 1d4+2 damage each. If the lion pounces on an opponent, it can also rake.

Skills: Lions receive a +4 racial bonus to Balance, Hide, and Move Silently checks. In areas of tall grass or heavy undergrowth, the Hide bonus improves to +12.