The company Seven lions to be euthanized in New Zealand
In New Zealand, a zoo in financial difficulties plans to euthanize seven old lions. On Tuesday, the operators announced the permanent closure of the private zoo Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in the city of Whangarei and the killing of the big cats.
05.11.2025, 10:35
SDA
"There were no real alternatives left. My staff and I are devastated," said the zoo's director, Janette Vallance. The lions are reportedly between 18 and 21 years old.
This means that they have reached a higher age than most members of their species in the wild. According to the operators, they were unable to place them in other New Zealand zoos. According to the zoo, "the memory of these incredible animals" will live on in the hearts of many people.
The zoo in Whangarei became famous around 20 years ago through a television series about the New Zealand predator trainer Craig Busch, who called himself "The Lion Man". He was later accused of animal cruelty, including keeping animals in unsuitable cages. In 2009, an animal keeper was killed by a white tiger at the zoo.
