Those first physical encounters went so well that the couple now regularly mate. That is why they can now also be admired together in the country retreat. The entire introduction was done in consultation with international behavioral specialists, veterinarians and the coordinators of the European breeding program (EEP).
The Northern Lion is one of the most endangered subspecies in the world, with an estimated only 250 adult animals in the wild. Only 85 copies live in zoos worldwide. Bellewaerde hopes that the bond between Nestor and Zari will deepen. “With a little luck we can welcome cubs in the future,” it sounds hopeful.
Together with the breeding program, the park also looks at whether the other lionesses, Najwa and Tala, move to another European animal park in the future to ensure offspring.