A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was compelled to put down two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following monetary problems.
The privately owned wildlife reserve in the northern town of Whangārei ceased operations over the past weekend.
In a social media announcement, the establishment indicated that its proprietor had put the property up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “after a challenging decision made by the landowner.”
“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are devastated,” commented the park’s director.
“Even though it may potentially continue as a wildlife attraction under new ownership, such a future would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable financial backing,” the director noted.
In a later announcement, the facility verified that two of its lions had been humanely killed.
“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator said.
However, there was a “ray of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had earlier indicated would be euthanised.
“A handful of parties have shown interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the window is short and the situation remain unclear, we are doing all we can to pursue this option and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the number of cats involved, and their complex needs.
The facility’s posts were overwhelmed by comments from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the remaining lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would review the plan to end their lives.
The director noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also encountered hostile and abusive remarks.
“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We recognize that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and courtesy as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The regulatory body indicated that the determination to humanely kill the lions lay with the landowners, and that it had been notified of the course of action.
A senior official commented that humane killing had to be performed humanely, and in accordance with animal welfare law.
“An regulatory officer will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the representative said. “We are confident that the facility continues to satisfy its animal welfare and containment responsibilities.”
The park achieved minor fame in the early part of the century when it appeared on a television show about a famous animal trainer.
However, it soon faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a big cat while carrying out duties.
The facility often ran into economic issues and workforce challenges, and had multiple owners on several occasions. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to cease operations until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.
