Three Young Lions Join Kilimanjaro Safaris in Animal Kingdom

A new lion pride has joined Animal Kingdom’s Harambe Wildlife Reserve. The three young lions replace Dakari and Kamari, who recently retired from Kilimanjaro Safaris for a quieter existence at a Florida conservation haven. Here’s the announcement from Disney:

“Meet siblings Mshango, Zahara, and Neema, three lions bringing their vibrant energy as they join the savanna this week. These young and regal lions are already making their roars heard and showing guests their playful and cub-like spirit on the Kilimanjaro Safaris.”

In addition to entertaining Animal Kingdom guests, the trio will play an important role in lion conservation. They could be called on to breed with lions from another pride as part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The plan is designed to ensure the genetic diversity of animal populations.

Lions are the finale of the Kilimanjaro Safaris tour (we’re not counting the recently added goat habitat — that’s more of a post-credits scene). We enjoyed our Safaris in November, but the lack of lions was kind of a letdown. We can’t wait to meet Mshango, Zahara, and Neema in the spring.

Learn more about Disney’s commitment to lion conservation at Protect the Pride.