Additional Coverage:
- New Zealand wildlife sanctuary euthanizes two elderly lions, with future of five more uncertain (nbcnews.com)
New Zealand Sanctuary Euthanizes Two Elderly Lions, Five More Face Uncertain Future
Whangārei, New Zealand – A New Zealand wildlife sanctuary has euthanized two of its seven elderly lions following its closure due to financial constraints, with the fate of the remaining five hanging in the balance.
The privately owned sanctuary, located in Whangārei, the northernmost city in New Zealand, officially closed its doors to the public last weekend. Earlier this week, a statement confirmed that the seven resident lions, aged between 18 and 21, would be euthanized, a “difficult decision made by the property owners, Bolton Equities.”
Janette Vallance, the sanctuary’s director, expressed her profound sadness, stating, “There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated.”
The property is currently for sale, and while it could potentially continue to house the lions, this would necessitate “significant capital investment,” according to the statement.
On Thursday, the sanctuary confirmed the euthanasia of Imvula and Sibili, two lions suffering from “serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating.” The decision was made “with deep care and consideration.”
Vallance emphasized that the sanctuary had “thoroughly investigated options” for the remaining lions-Shikira, Cleo, Abdullah, Timba, and Thembah-and that their well-being was the paramount concern. She clarified that relocation was not considered a “viable or humane option” due to their advanced age, number, and complex needs.
However, a “glimmer of hope” remains for the surviving lions, Vallance noted. “A few individuals have expressed interest in purchasing the facility and continuing to care for the lions,” she said. “While the timeframe is short and the situation remains uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive.”
Vallance also reported receiving “deeply distressing” threatening and abusive messages. “We understand that emotions are high, but we ask for kindness and respect as we navigate this heartbreaking situation,” she appealed.
Lions in captivity typically live into their late teens or early 20s. In contrast, wild female lions can live up to 16 years, while male lions rarely surpass the age of 12.
Bolton Equities, an Auckland-based private equity investment company, has yet to comment on the situation. Vallance stated that the company had invested millions of dollars into the sanctuary with no financial return.
The sanctuary’s website underscores the substantial cost of maintaining the lions, citing “feed, supplements, experienced staff, compound and grounds maintenance, vets, and more all exert pressure on our purse.”