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Troubled New Zealand Wildlife Park Euthanises Two Lions, Fate of Five More Uncertain
A financially troubled wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has announced it was forced to humanely kill 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 ceased operations over the weekend.
In a online update, the facility explained that its owner had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, aged between 18 and 21 years old, would be put down “following a challenging decision made by the landowner.”
“There were no real options left. The team and I are deeply saddened,” 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 purchase of the property but significant monetary input,” the operator explained.
In a subsequent update, the sanctuary announced that two of its lions had been euthanised.
“We had to part with Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had significant medical issues that were not treatable and were declining. These decisions were made with deep care and thoughtfulness,” the operator remarked.
However, there was a “glimmer of hope” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be euthanised.
“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and continuing to care for the lions. Although the window is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this opportunity and keep hope alive.”
Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their advanced age, the quantity of animals involved, and their demanding care.
The facility’s posts were filled with messages from concerned citizens, pleading for a stay of execution for the surviving lions, while past workers expressed hope that the facility would reconsider the course of action to end their lives.
The manager stated that among the supportive comments and messages of sorrow, she had also encountered threatening and offensive remarks.
“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We understand that passions are strong, but we appeal for kindness and respect as we manage this heartbreaking predicament.”
The landowner chose not to respond.
The government department indicated that the decision to humanely kill the cats rested with the proprietors, and that it had been informed of the intention.
A deputy director stated that euthanasia had to be performed ethically, and in line with animal protection legislation.
“An animal welfare inspector will be on location to verify this is done appropriately,” the spokesperson said. “We are satisfied that the facility continues to fulfill its animal welfare and security obligations.”
The facility attained some recognition in the early 2000s when it was shown on a television show about a famous animal trainer.
However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a handler was killed by a big cat while performing maintenance.
The facility frequently experienced financial trouble and workforce challenges, and switched proprietors repeatedly. In 2014, the ministry of primary industries directed the park to shut down until the enclosures were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.
Brian Hernandez
A passionate writer and shopping enthusiast with a keen eye for quality products and lifestyle trends.
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