Introducing our big cat girls – who are taking in the sights and sounds of Auckland Zoo!
Arriving just over two weeks ago from Australia’s Werribee Open Range Zoo, these four-year-old female lions are here with us as part of the international zoo breeding and advocacy programme for this increasingly threatened species.
As carnivore keeper Beth explains, Aziza, Ilola and Kibibi are descendants of Kura, a much-loved lioness that our keepers and visitors remember fondly. The lionesses are currently exploring their stunning Africa Safari Track habitat where they’re able to fulfil the remainder of their quarantine period – and as you can see, they’re enjoying checking out the locals!
Thanks to our friends at Werribee Open Range Zoo we’re able to share the meanings behind their beautiful names - Kibibi means ‘little lady’ and Aziza means powerful, beloved and precious in Swahili, while Ilola means to ‘grow strong’ in the Lesotho language.
We’re looking forward to welcoming you to the zoo to meet them once it’s safe to do so. Please stay tuned to our social channels and website for more info on how to visit at Level 2, as we’ll be requiring all visitors, including our annual members, to book a session prior to visiting.
