Jillian

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Meet Jillian, Our African Lion

At Lions Tigers & Bears, every rescue is a story of compassion and second chances. Jillian and Suri, two lionesses rescued from an overcrowded and unaccredited sanctuary in Louisiana, embody the spirit of resilience and sisterhood. Their journey from uncertainty to sanctuary life is a testament to the transformative power of love and dedicated care. Jillian was named at our Wild in the Country fundraiser in June 2007. The name Jillian means "youthful" and "bright light," which totally described her personality as a cub. Jillian enjoys wading in the ponds of her habitat, snoozing in the cool grass with her sister, and her favorite time of day is meal time!

A New Beginning

Suri and Jillian, along with their brother Bakari (who passed in 2022), were rescued from an unaccredited big cat sanctuary in Louisiana. During this rescue mission, Bobbi knew she would be bringing back three lion cubs: Bakari, Jillian, and Suri. At just four weeks old, these young lions found themselves on a journey to Lions Tigers & Bears, where they would find safety, care, and a new family.

A Sanctuary of Peace

Jillian and Suri’s journey highlights the vital importance of sanctuaries like ours. Here, they have found safety, companionship, and the chance to live free from the exploitation they faced before. Their story inspires us to continue our mission of rescue, rehabilitation, and advocacy for all animals in need.

Visit us at Lions Tigers & Bears to meet Jillian and Suri and witness their remarkable journey firsthand. Your support ensures that these lionesses, along with others like them, receive the care, enrichment, and love they deserve. By becoming a champion for Jillian and Suri through sponsorship, you directly contribute to their daily care, specialized diet, medications, and continued medical needs. Your generosity helps sustain their wellbeing and supports our ongoing efforts to provide a lifetime safe haven for all our rescued animals

Watch Jillian's Incredible Story

Milestones

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February 2019
Suri and Jillian, along with their brother Bakari (who passed in 2022), were rescued from an unaccredited big cat sanctuary in Louisiana. The sanctuary had become overcrowded due to safety violations endangering the public and irresponsible breeding practices, prompting the state of Louisiana to seek assistance. Bobbi, our founder & director, responded to the call and assisted with spaying, neutering, and improving conditions for the animals.

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Bakari, Jillian, and Suri were only 4 weeks old when Bobbi brought them to their forever home, Lions Tigers & Bears.

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Upon arrival, they received a full medical exam, put on a proper diet and monitored constantly. They were introduced to their species specific habitat with enrichments for their development. Today, they spend their days lounging in the grass, wading in the ponds, and enjoying the peace and tranquility of the sanctuary.

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Today
Jillian and her sister Suri have blossomed in their sanctuary home. Suri particularly enjoys spending her days lounging with Jillian in the lush grass, wading in the ponds, and embracing the peace and tranquility that define life at Lions Tigers & Bears. Their bond as sisters is evident in their playful interactions and shared moments of contentment.

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Meet Our Other Residents

Punkin

Meet Punkin, Our Mountain Lion Punkin and his partner Melanie lived at a private facility in Ohio that bred tiger cubs and other exotic animals. The facility was shut down when the state enacted SB 310 - the Ohio Dangerous Wild Animals Act in 2014. Punkin was rescued in 2015, along with his partner Melanie, and […]

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Suri

With heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved lioness, Suri. A cherished resident of Lions Tigers & Bears for over 18 years, Suri was rescued as a cub in 2007, along with her siblings, Jillian and Bakari, from an unaccredited facility in Louisiana that was shut down due to safety and animal care […]

Learn more Sponsor Suri

Crystal

Meet Crystal: From a Breeding Facility to a Sanctuary of Hope At Lions Tigers & Bears, we are committed to rescuing animals from dire situations and providing them with a safe, nurturing environment. Crystal the tiger's story is one of survival, resilience, and transformation. Her journey from a harsh breeding facility to our sanctuary highlights […]

Learn more Sponsor Crystal

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FAQ's

What do lions eat?

Lions are carnivores, primarily feeding on large herbivores like zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and antelopes. They will also hunt smaller animals if necessary and may scavenge food.

Where do lions live?

Lions are typically found in savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands across Africa. A small population of Asiatic lions also lives in the Gir Forest of India.

How long do lions live?

In the wild, lions live about 10 to 14 years, while in captivity they can live up to 20 to 25 years due to better medical care and no predators.

Are lions social animals?

Yes, lions are highly social and live in groups called prides, which usually consist of related females, their offspring, and a small number of adult males.

How fast can lions run?

Lions can run up to 50 miles per hour (80 kilometers per hour) in short bursts, usually when chasing prey. However, they can't maintain this speed for long due to a lack of stamina.

Are lions endangered?

Yes, lions are classified as "Vulnerable" by the IUCN, with some populations being critically endangered. Their numbers have declined due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Conservation efforts aim to protect their remaining populations and preserve their natural habitats.

How many lions are in captivity?

There are thousands of lions in captivity worldwide, including in roadside zoos, unaccredited sanctuaries, and private ownership. Many lions suffer in the cub petting and canned hunting industries, where they are bred for profit and later exploited. Accredited Sanctuaries like Lions Tigers & Bears rescue and provide a safe, natural environment for lions that have been abused or neglected.

Watch More Videos on Lions

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The Majestic Roar of Lions and What It Tells Us | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego Animal Sanctuary

The Life Cycle and Significance of the Lion’s Mane | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego Animal Rescue

The Role of Territory and Dominance in Lion Behavior | Lions Tigers & Bears | San Diego Lion Rescue

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