Three lionesses have recently been relocated to a spacious new enclosure at the Pretoria Zoo.
The Pretoria National Zoological Garden (NZG) recently introduced three resilient lionesses, Xena, Sora and Venus to their large mountain enclosure as they have outgrown their initial enclosure.
Sanbi spokesperson Nontsikelelo Mpulo said it’s essential that they have more expansive environments that allow for the predator’s natural behaviours such as roaming, playing, and exploring as they continue to grow and develop.
Mpulo said the cubs were confiscated by law enforcement authorities at a young age.
“[The lions were] confiscated by law enforcement authorities as cubs and brought to the NZG. The trio has grown into strong and spirited young lions, now thriving in their new mountain enclosure.”
She said the lionesses moved to their large mountain enclosure, which is almost a hectare in size and this bigger space gives them plenty of room to explore and play.
“The NZG team has worked hard to keep them active and engaged, using things like hanging tyres, feathers, and even elephant dung for enrichment.”
Photo: Supplied
Mpulo said they are exploring their new space, which is a great sign that they are feeling comfortable and secure.
“Curator Carol Thobela-Mabaso, who oversees carnivores, pachyderms, and the farmyard, checked on them this morning and was pleased to see how quickly they have adapted to their new surroundings.”
According to Mpulo, Xena (warrior princess) was born on November 7, 2022, and was rescued at just 3,5 weeks old, weighing 4kg. Today she stands as a symbol of resilience, having received her first vaccine on December 15, 2022, when she weighed 6,30kg.
“Sora (sky), born November 2, 2022, was also saved from the black market at four weeks old, weighing 4.26kg. By mid-December, she had grown to 6.56kg and continues to thrive alongside her pride.
“Venus (goddess of love and beauty), Sora’s sister, shares the same birthdate and was rescued alongside her. At four weeks old, she weighed 4kg, and by December 20, 2022, her weight had increased to 6.84kg.”
NZG planned special enrichment activities to celebrate World Lion Day on August 10 where visitors could witness the lions in action during their feeding time.
Mpulo said it went exceptionally well, with a great turnout and more than 100 visitors signing indemnity forms to participate in the activities.
She said the lionesses were put on display, giving visitors a unique, first-hand experience. Visitors could see behind the scenes and learn about how the lions are cared for at NZG.
“They witnessed how our staff monitors the lions through cameras, prepares their food, and places it strategically in the enclosure and saw how the animals are regularly weighed to ensure they are healthy.”
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