Dire Lion (CR 5)

Large Animal
Alignment: Always neutral
Initiative: +2 (Dex); Senses: low-light vision, scent, Listen +7, and Spot +7

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AC: 15 (-1 size, +2 Dex, +4 natural), touch 11, flat-footed 13
Hit Dice: 8d8+24 (60 hp)
Fort +9, Ref +8, Will +7

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Speed: 40 ft.
Space: 10 ft./5 ft.
Base Attack +6; Grapple +17
Attack: Claw +13 melee
Full Attack: 2 claws +13 melee and bite +7 melee
Damage: Claw 1d6+7, bite 1d8+3
Special Attacks: Pounce, improved grab, rake 1d6+3

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Abilities: Str 25, Dex 15, Con 17, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 10
Special Qualities:
Feats: Alertness; Run; Weapon Focus (claw)
Skills: Hide +2*, Listen +7, Move Silently +5, and Spot +7
Advancement: 9-16 HD (Large); 17-24 HD (Huge)

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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

Dire animals are larger, tougher, meaner versions of normal animals. They tend to have a feral, prehistoric look.

Dire lions grow up to 20 feet long and weigh up to 3,500 pounds.

Combat

A dire lion attacks by running at prey leaping, and clawing and biting as it rakes with its rear claws. It often jumps onto a creature larger than itself.

Pounce (Ex): If a dire 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 dire lion must hit with its bite attack. If it gets a hold, it can rake.

Rake (Ex): A dire lion can make two rake attacks (+12 melee) against a held creature with its hind legs for 1d6+3 damage each. If the dire lion pounces on an opponent, it can also rake.

Skills: Dire lions receive a +4 racial bonus to Hide and Move Silently checks. *In areas of tall grass or heavy undergrowth, the Hide bonus improves to +8.