San antonio zoo welcomes seven year old african lion named tatu

A seven year old male African lion named Tatu is moving to the San Antonio Zoo from the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center in Kansas. The transfer is arranged through a collaborative conservation program designed to maintain healthy and genetically diverse animal populations across participating facilities.

Born at the Denver Zoo in 2019, Tatu later relocated to Kansas in 2023 before preparing for his upcoming journey down to Texas. Animal keepers describe him as an intelligent, playful and curious individual with a cautious streak who responds very well to natural enrichment activities that stimulate his predatory instincts.

Upon arrival at the local facility, animal care workers will manage a gradual and careful introduction process between Tatu and Sarabi, the zoo's eighteen year old senior lioness. Because of notable differences in age, size and physical strength, the two lions will never share the exact same physical space in the habitat enclosure.

Instead of sharing an enclosure, the lions will have structured opportunities to see, smell and interact safely with one another through heavy protective barriers. Lauren Inderbitzen, the zoo director of animal wellbeing, said Tatu brings a young and energetic presence to the grounds while Sarabi enjoys her quiet senior years.

Tatu will spend his initial days exploring his new surroundings and practicing natural hunting behaviors designed by his keepers. Meanwhile, Sarabi will continue receiving specialized veterinary support, tailored physical therapy and customized enrichment from her care team without disruption.

Visitors can view the new lion on exhibit once he completes his scheduled settling in period at the park.