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After a brief absence following the passing of two beloved elderly lions, Jabari and Kwame, Zoo Miami welcomes lions back to the zoo.
Two young male lions, Azizi and Jasiri, arrived on Nov. 6 from the Phoenix Zoo in Arizona and have completed their initial quarantine period. Born on June 3, 2024, the brothers are a little over a year old and are still in the early stages of developing the majestic manes that will eventually define them as they mature into the future “Kings of the Beasts.” Male lions can grow to nearly 400 pounds and are known as the most powerful predators on the African continent.
Azizi and Jasiri recently were introduced to their new exhibit for the first time. With cautious steps, the brothers ventured into their habitat, exploring the space together. They stayed close to each other, curiously investigating every corner, including the trees and the enrichment items carefully placed by our staff to engage them mentally and physically. The brothers made their way to the top of a large rock formation, affectionately named, “Pride Rock,” by staff in homage to Disney’s The Lion King.
To enrich their experience, animal science staff provided Azizi and Jasiri with large bones, which they eagerly chewed on for several minutes before returning to their holding area to continue their feast and enjoy a well-deserved “catnap.”
During coming weeks, the lions will have periodic access to their exhibit as part of a “soft opening,” allowing them to gradually acclimate to their new surroundings. During this time, they may or may not be visible to the public. As the brothers grow more comfortable, they will begin to spend more time in the habitat, eventually becoming a regular part of the zoo’s daily routine.
Azizi and Jasiri represent the foundation of a long-term plan to once again establish a pride at Zoo Miami. The goal is to bring in female lions in the future, contributing to the conservation and management of this magnificent species through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP).
In addition to supporting this important program, Zoo Miami has made significant contributions to lion conservation efforts in the wild, donating thousands of dollars through its conservation fund to protect lions across Africa.
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