Story perspectives

Kamo Sanctuary to Euthanize Seven Lions Amid Crisis

11/6/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in Whangarei, New Zealand, will euthanize seven lions aged 18–21 due to financial difficulties.
There are no viable alternatives to re-home the lions.
Sanctuary operator Janette Vallance expressed devastation, saying, "There were no real options left."
The sanctuary, formerly Zion Wildlife Gardens, faced a 2009 fatal tiger attack and liquidation in 2023.
Animal welfare inspectors will oversee euthanasia to ensure compliance with the Animal Welfare Act.

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Story summary

Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary in Whangarei, New Zealand, will euthanize seven lions aged 18–21 due to financial difficulties.
There are no viable alternatives to re-home the lions.
Sanctuary operator Janette Vallance expressed devastation, saying, "There were no real options left."
The sanctuary, formerly Zion Wildlife Gardens, faced a 2009 fatal tiger attack and liquidation in 2023.
Animal welfare inspectors will oversee euthanasia to ensure compliance with the Animal Welfare Act.