Are the White Lions currently classified as an endangered species?
No, they are not yet appropriately classified. Presently, the White Lions are listed as Panthera leo, under CITES Appendix II, and, therefore, fall under the classification of a “Vulnerable Species”, i.e. species that are not necessarily now threatened with extinction but, that may become so unless trade is closely controlled. Appendix II means that White Lions or their derivatives (e.g. animal parts) can be sold, hunted and traded. In reality, every permit issued to hunt a lion (Panthera leo) can be used to hunt a White Lion. Since there are currently no White Lions in the wild in their endemic range, White Lions are critically endangered. Any White Lions born or reintroduced to the wild are not protected.
