African lions are one of the most recognizable species on the planet. Their iconic manes and booming roars are hard to forget. Despite their popularity, however, their natural habitat is in danger, and lions are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List. Over the last 25 years, wild lion populations have declined more than 43% due to poaching, habitat loss and depletion of the prey they hunt. Ensuring the future of this iconic species requires global commitment. While conservation in the wild remains a priority, accredited zoos contribute through breeding programs and education. After a short absence, lions are making a triumphant return to Abilene Zoo, which in turn will serve as a conservation effort to educate, inspire, and raise awareness for these awe-inspiring animals. Â
African lions first arrived at Abilene Zoo in 1967, shortly after its opening. The two young lion cubs were named Simba and Elsa. Â The enclosure for them was simple, being made largely of sand, stone, and concrete, with little shade. A large concrete moat separated the lions from the public, limiting the space further. The enclosure went through many changes over the years, through several generations of lions, but
there was always more we wanted to provide for this majestic species .
The old lion exhibit is being demolished to become part of the new rhino habitat. The zoo’s master plan, A Bold Adventure, will provide Abilene Zoo with a brand new enclosure in the new heart of the zoo, the largest lion habitat the zoo has ever had. The new space will be able to support a whole pride of lions!
Including a warm holding building for the cats, the area will house up to 6 individuals, allowing  the entire pride the ability to grow and thrive. The Abilene Zoo hasn’t seen lion cubs in quite some time, but A Bold Adventure paves the way for expanding the lion family. Â
Guests will be able to see the lions from up high, down low, and uncomfortably close. From the ground, guests will be able to walk along the full length of the east side of the habitat. On the North side, the first floor of the café will have floor-to-ceiling windows connected to the habitat, allowing guests to get up close to the beasts for some ferocious eats. The second floor will also have a viewing deck with seating, giving a clear view of the entire exhibit.
Additionally, the windows of the C-130 will allow guests to peer down onto the lions as though they are flying overhead. Beneath the plane, an amphitheater will be constructed to provide guests with educational presentations and enriching keeper chats for the big cats.
More exciting information regarding the café, the C-130, and more animals will be given soon, but you can help with A Bold Adventure now! Construction is already underway, and your support will help bring A Bold Adventure to life and ensure that we continue to inspire meaningful connections with wildlife for generations to come.
For 60 years, we’ve been shaped by the support of our community. Now, as the next chapter begins, we invite you to be part of it.
Follow the journey on our social media channels for construction updates as the vision becomes a reality. Members will get special sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes updates.
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Strap in for the adventure at abilenezoo.org/adventure.
