A new home for Asiatic lions is due to open at ZSL London Zoo next spring, and will be five times the size of the current lion enclosure.
Land of the Lions will bring India’s Gir Forest – where ZSL are working to save the last 500 wild Asiatic lions – to the London attraction to create a state-of-the-art breeding centre for the big cats, plus an educational area for visitors.
An immersive enclosure
Groups visiting will find themselves at a crossroads upon entering the zoo, with the choice to take a path into the centre of the ‘village’, follow a forest track towards a ranger’s house, or head into the ruins of an ancient fort.
Taking inspiration from ZSL’s expedition to villages in Gujarat province, the new area will feature a high street complete with tuk tuks, colourful signage and will include places to eat.
Land of the Lions will cover over 2,500 square metres, and plants and trees for the enclosure have been selected to mimic the Asiatic lion’s natural Gir Forest habitat.
A group of Hanuman langur monkeys living on the rooftop of the ruined fort are an added bonus of the new enclosure.
Group rates are available for parties of ten or more people.
For more information visit zsl.org/London