🔗 Share this article

A struggling wildlife sanctuary in New Zealand has stated it was compelled to euthanise two of its elderly lions, with the destiny of the other five lions still uncertain, following economic struggles.

The privately owned wildlife sanctuary in the northern city of Whangārei shut down 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 euthanised “after a difficult decision made by the landowner.”

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

“Even though it may possibly continue as a big cat facility under new ownership, such a scenario would require not only the acquisition of the land but significant monetary input,” the manager noted.

In a recent statement, the facility confirmed that two of its lions had been humanely killed.

“We recently farewelled Imvula and Sibili, both of whom had grave illnesses that were untreatable and were deteriorating. These actions were made with profound consideration and thoughtfulness,” the operator stated.

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

“A few individuals have expressed interest in buying the establishment and maintaining care for the lions. While the timeframe is short and the circumstances remain unclear, we are doing all we can to investigate this option and maintain optimism.”

Relocating the lions to a different location was not a “feasible or ethical alternative” due to their age, the quantity of animals involved, and their complex needs.

The sanctuary’s updates were overwhelmed by responses from concerned citizens, begging for a second chance for the other big cats, while ex-employees expressed optimism that the sanctuary would reconsider the decision to end their lives.

The operator noted that amid the kind messages and words of condolence, she had also received threatening and abusive comments.

“This is profoundly disturbing,” she commented. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for compassion and decency as we navigate this devastating predicament.”

The property owner refused to comment.

The ministry for primary industries clarified that the choice to euthanise the lions was the responsibility of the owners, and that it had been advised of the course of action.

A high-ranking officer commented that humane killing had to be conducted humanely, and in line with animal protection legislation.

“An regulatory officer will be onsite to verify this is done properly,” the spokesperson noted. “We are satisfied that the operation continues to fulfill its wildlife protection and security obligations.”

The sanctuary gained minor fame in the early part of the century when it was shown on a broadcast series about a famous animal trainer.

However, it quickly faced challenges. In 2009, a staff member was fatally attacked by a white tiger while cleaning its enclosure.

The sanctuary often experienced financial trouble and employment issues, and had multiple owners repeatedly. In 2014, the regulatory body directed the facility to shut down until the habitats were improved. It reopened in 2021 but faced insolvency in 2023.