The two African lions that have called Disney’s Animal Kingdom home for several years will soon retire. Disney will then welcome a new pride to the park.
African Lions Retiring from Disney’s Animal Kingdom, New Pride Coming Soon
Dakari and Kamari have lived on the savanna of Kilimanjaro Safaris for a decade. They will retire to a conservation haven in Florida accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
Disney Parks VP of Animals, Science and Environment Dr. Mark Penning wrote on Disney Parks Blog that the decision to retire them was made with “heartfelt emotions” and “with a continued focus on their wellbeing, happiness and health in mind.”
In the wild, lions live on average 10 – 14 years, with females usually living longer. In captivity, they can live into their early 20s.
Dakari and Kamari served as models for the 2019 remake of “The Lion King.” Filmmakers visited Disney’s Animal Kingdom and filmed the two to create 3D models that were used for the film’s photo-realistic-looking CGI lions.
After Dakari and Kamari depart the park, Disney will welcome a pride of three young lions, one male and two females. They are littermates so won’t need to be introduced to each other. During their first few weeks at Disney, they will spend time backstage getting acclimated to their keepers and space.
Details of their arrival and when guests can see them on Kilimanjaro Safaris will be announced soon.
For the latest Disney Parks news and info, follow WDW News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
When are they due to retire?