Financial Woes Force Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary to Euthanize Lions

In New Zealand's Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary, nestled in Whangarei, an unfortunate series of events has led to the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize seven lions, all of them older in age.

Janette Vallance, the operator of the sanctuary, expressed her sorrow, noting that the park faced insurmountable financial issues. "We've reached a point where we have no viable choices," she stated.

These lions are between 18 and 21 years old, surpassing the typical lifespan of their counterparts in the wild, making finding new homes for them within other New Zealand zoos impossible.

The sanctuary highlighted the cherished memories and enduring legacy these majestic creatures will leave behind.

Costly Care for Majestic Beasts

Sustaining such animal giants comes with substantial financial burdens. Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary outlined the significant expenses involved in providing an optimal environment, including food, medical care, and maintenance.

The sanctuary issued an open request for livestock donations to feed their lions, each consuming the equivalent of three cows weekly.

Sanctuary's Notable Past

In the early 2000s, the park gained some fame through its association with Craig Busch, a celebrity big cat handler who later faced allegations of improper animal care.

A tragic incident in 2009 marked the sanctuary's past when a keeper was killed by a white tiger, prompting a temporary shutdown by the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for safety evaluations.

Once home to various big cat species, including lions, tigers, leopards, and cheetahs, the sanctuary has seen a significant reduction in its animal residents since its earlier days.