Yorkshire Wildlife Park Simba death: Tributes flood in from Yorkshire locals following the death of ‘majestic’ rescue lion at Doncaster wildlife park

Yorkshire locals have expressed their sadness following the death of a beloved lion Simba, who was rescued by Yorkshire Wildlife Park 13 years ago.
Liana Jacob
By Liana Jacob
Published 6th Oct 2023, 14:55 GMT

A lion rescued from a Romanian zoo in 2010 and brought to a wildlife park in Doncaster has died this week on Tuesday, October 3, 2023.

The lion, named Simba, was 14 years old when he lost his battle with ongoing age-related health issues.

He was one of 13 lions that were rescued from the zoo.

Simba the lion at the park. (Pic credit: Yorkshire Wildlife Park)Simba the lion at the park. (Pic credit: Yorkshire Wildlife Park)
Simba the lion at the park. (Pic credit: Yorkshire Wildlife Park)
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A spokesperson for Yorkshire Wildlife Park said: “He arrived [at Yorkshire Wildlife Park] when he was eight or nine months old. He had a good life at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

“Everyone was very sad but proud that he had such a good life after being rescued.

“The whole pride was being kept in a very run-down Romanian zoo at the time and their rescue was supported by the public.

“A lot of money was raised to bring them to Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

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“The whole pride, all the rescued lions, have the space that they deserve, the best veterinary care and the best food.”

Yorkshire residents were heartbroken over the news as a Facebook post published by the wildlife park was flooded with comments.

“Heartbreaking. Such a handsome boy. We spent ages watching him & his lioness friend... such a beautiful memory I will treasure forever. RIP beautiful Simba... run free love & thoughts to his keepers too... a big loss I'm sure.” - Sarah Cole

“Oh no, I am so sad to read this. He was such a beautiful lion, and I was really lucky to get up close to him a few years ago. Thinking of you all, such sad news.” - Dawn Walker

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“So sad, RIP Simba , such a beautiful Majestic Lion.” - Viv-Roy Goffin

“Beautiful Simba RIP. Seen him so many times and did a feeding experience with him and his mum Maria a few years ago. Will be very much missed.” - Jackie Houlton

“Beautiful boy. Rest in Peace and run free in the wild.” - Helen Glasbey

“I'll miss seeing Simba! He always seemed to enjoy the attention, he was so photogenic!” - Anne Backhouse

“Gorgeous Simba RIP. He will be missed.” - Julie Snow

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“I got to feed Simba in July this year. Feel very privileged to have met him.” - Colleen Walker

“I loved his roar! You could hear it from the other side of the park. I would stand and watch him for ages in the hope he would roar while I was watching. He did but just the once and woow!!” - Martha June

Related topics:Yorkshire Wildlife ParkYorkshireDoncasterFacebook

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