🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has revealed it was forced to euthanise two of its senior lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still undecided, following financial difficulties.

The privately owned wildlife park in the northern town of Whangārei shut down over the weekend.

In a social media announcement, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “following a tough decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Although it might possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the property but significant capital investment,” the manager added.

In a later update, the park announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were not treatable and were deteriorating. These choices were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the operator said.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the facility had earlier indicated would be humanely killed.

“A several interested parties have expressed interest in acquiring the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is tight and the conditions remain unresolved, we are doing our utmost to pursue this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to another facility was not a “viable or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.

The facility’s posts were flooded with messages from the community, requesting a stay of execution for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed hope that the park would review the course of action to euthanise them.

The operator mentioned that alongside the sympathetic words and expressions of sympathy, she had also encountered menacing and offensive messages.

“This is deeply distressing,” she said. “We acknowledge that passions are strong, but we ask for consideration and decency as we handle this tragic situation.”

The landowner chose not to respond.

The regulatory body clarified that the decision to humanely kill the big cats was the responsibility of the proprietors, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official explained that putting down had to be carried out compassionately, and in accordance with animal welfare law.

“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to ensure this is done correctly,” the official noted. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to satisfy its animal care and enclosure responsibilities.”

The facility achieved some recognition in the early 2000s when it appeared on a television show about a well-known lion tamer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a keeper was mauled to death by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The park often experienced economic issues and employment issues, and changed ownership on several occasions. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries instructed the establishment to cease operations until the facilities were modernized. It reopened in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.