Copyright M Live Michigan
A wildlife park has euthanized two elderly lions and says the fate of five others is uncertain after the facility closed amid financial difficulties on Nov. 2. Staff at Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in Whangarei, New Zealand said this week that it had no choice but to euthanize the big cats named Imvula and Sibili because they had serious health conditions that were not treatable and were deteriorating. “There were no real options left. The staff and I are devastated,” said Janette Vallance, director of the sanctuary. The lions, including five still alive named Shikira, Cleo, Abdullah, Timba and Themba, are all between 18 and 21 years old, significantly older than the average age of wild lions. Relocating them is not a “viable or humane option” due to their age, number and complex needs. It’s uncertain what will happen to the animals following the decision by owner Bolton Equities to close the property after investing millions over the years. The property is for sale and could potentially continue to serve as a home for the lions, but that would require “significant capital investment,” according to a statement. Fortunately, since news of the situation has spread, some parties have expressed interest in purchasing the park and continuing to care for the lions, providing what the park called “a glimmer of hope.” “While the timeframe is short and the situation remains uncertain, we are doing everything we can to explore this possibility and keep hope alive,” the park wrote on social media.
