🔗 Share this article

A beleaguered wildlife park in New Zealand has announced it was obliged to put down two of its older lions, with the destiny of the remaining five lions still unclear, following monetary problems.

The private wildlife park in the northern city of Whangārei shut down over the past weekend.

In a social media post, the establishment clarified that its proprietor had listed the land up for sale in August, and the group of seven lions, ranging from 18 and 21 years old, would be euthanised “after a tough decision made by the property owner.”

“No viable alternatives remained. The employees and I are deeply saddened,” commented the park’s director.

“Even though it may possibly continue as a wildlife attraction under different management, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but considerable monetary input,” the operator noted.

In a recent statement, the sanctuary confirmed that two of its lions had been euthanised.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were worsening. These actions were made with profound consideration and consideration,” the manager remarked.

However, there was a “flicker of optimism” for the other five lions, which the sanctuary had previously indicated would be put down.

“A handful of parties have shown interest in buying the property and providing for the lions. Although the deadline is tight and the situation remain uncertain, we are doing everything we can to investigate this possibility and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to an alternate site was not a “practical or ethical alternative” due to their elderly status, the group size involved, and their demanding care.

The sanctuary’s updates were flooded with messages from the community, pleading for a second chance for the other big cats, while former staff members expressed hope that the sanctuary would rethink the decision to end their lives.

The manager stated that amid the kind messages and messages of sorrow, she had also received hostile and abusive comments.

“This is extremely upsetting,” she commented. “We acknowledge that emotions are high, but we request consideration and respect as we handle this heartbreaking predicament.”

The proprietor declined to comment.

The regulatory body indicated that the decision to euthanise the big cats was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A senior official commented that putting down had to be performed humanely, and in compliance with animal welfare law.

“An compliance official will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are assured that the facility continues to meet its wildlife protection and security requirements.”

The facility gained a degree of notoriety 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 keeper was killed by a big cat while carrying out duties.

The sanctuary repeatedly ran into monetary difficulties and employment issues, and had multiple owners multiple times. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the establishment to close until the habitats were modernized. It restarted in 2021 but entered administration in 2023.