Scarface the lion that had his own Facebook page and starred in many documentaries has died of natural causes at 14 years of age, leaving his 400 square-mile territory up for grabs.

The king of the jungle – the oldest lion in the Kenyan Maasai Mara game reserve – was known for his huge scar across one eye.

His many TV appearances included the BBC documentary Big Cats Diary.

The lion died in his den in the Maasai Mara game reserve in southern Kenya of natural causes at the age of 14 on 11th June.

According to experts, Scarface held a huge 400 square-mile territory with his three brothers.

The World Heritage Species (WHS) said on social media: “We are heartbroken to announce that the legendary ‘Scarface’ passed away today of natural causes in his beloved Mara home.”

Reports said that Scarface had become skinny and poorly in the period leading to his death.

Lions typically live for between 10 and 14 years and Scarface, despite suffering a number of injuries, was considered a strong and charismatic leader, helped by his scarred image.

The lion got his famous scar in 2012 when he was four years old during a territory raid with his brothers Morani, Sikio, and Hunter.

He was also once injured by the spear of a Maasai warrior who was trying to protect his cattle.

In recent years, Scarface even had his own dedicated Facebook page and he became a sought-after subject for wildlife photographers.

Netizen ‘Michelle O’Brien’ said: “For me, it was love at first sight in February 2014, when I learned of his legendary life. He owned his world.

“October 2019, I was blessed to see him again…older, frail but magnificent. He stood only three feet away from our truck and gave us the ‘look’. I will miss you, old friend.”