The last lion has died in Bellewaerde Park ‘Park in deep mourning’

The zookeepers noticed that he had been less active in recent weeks and had difficulty moving around. Since Aru had been struggling with medical problems for some time, the difficult decision was made to euthanize the animal. “Making such a decision is not easy, but it was the best solution for Aru,” said Melissa Nollet, veterinarian and animal care manager.

His body was donated to the morphology department of the Ghent faculty of veterinary medicine for scientific research. He was the last surviving lion, after we had to say goodbye to Kefira and Assagi earlier. There are currently no lions in the park anymore. However, this is temporary as Bellewaerde, a member of EAZA* for many years, has started the search for new lions and lionesses. “We hope to receive them as soon as possible and restart the breeding program,” says Melissa Nollet.

“The death hits the Bellewaerde team hard. Lion Aru would have turned 16 years old on October 4. All employees, and the animal caretakers in particular, who had built up a strong bond with the animal over the years, will dearly love Lion Aru. to miss.”