🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was obliged to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still unclear, following economic struggles.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei ceased operations over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility clarified that its owner had put the property up for sale in August, and the seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The team and I are devastated,” stated the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a lion park under new ownership, such a outcome would require not only the acquisition of the land but substantial financial backing,” the director noted.

In a recent update, the park confirmed that two of its lions had been put down.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were incurable and were declining. These actions were made with deep care and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the facility had previously indicated would be humanely killed.

“A few individuals have indicated willingness in purchasing the facility and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is limited and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this opportunity and keep hope alive.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their age, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The park’s announcements were filled with responses from the community, begging for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed desire that the sanctuary would reconsider the plan to end their lives.

The operator stated that among the sympathetic words and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and offensive remarks.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that feelings are intense, but we request kindness and decency as we handle this devastating circumstance.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body stated that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the landowners, and that it had been notified of the plan.

A deputy director stated that putting down had to be conducted compassionately, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An regulatory officer will be present to verify this is done properly,” the official noted. “We are assured that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved minor fame in the early 2000s when it featured on a broadcast series about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The park repeatedly experienced monetary difficulties and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the park to close until the habitats were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.