Suri was rescued with her sister Jillian and brother Bakari in 2007 at the age of 4 weeks from a big cat sanctuary in Louisiana. Due to overcrowding in their facility they were unable to keep the cubs, so Lions Tigers & Bears stepped in to take all three lions.
As a cub, Suri was the smallest of the lion trio. She was also the sweetest, and was extremely playful and loving. Like her brother and sister, Suri was also named at our annual Wild in the Country fundraiser by a volunteer who won the naming rights in the live auction. Suri's name means "princess." Today Suri enjoys spending time lounging with Jillian in their habitats and enjoying the peace and tranquility of the sanctuary.
Lions, the majestic apex predators of the African savannah, are increasingly under threat from wildlife trafficking. This illicit trade, driven by the demand for lion bones, skins, and other body parts, is severely impacting lion populations.
Poachers often resort to cruel and inhumane methods to capture and kill these animals, further exacerbating the species' decline.
The illegal trade not only decimates lion numbers but also disrupts ecosystems, as lions play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their habitats. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to combat wildlife trafficking and protect these iconic creatures from extinction.
February 2019
After receiving lifesaving care at Cornell, Suri comes home to the Wildlife Sanctuary.
May 2019
Suri meets new rescue Leo; their friendship helps the lonely lion heal.
February 2020
Suri and Leo are featured in our Valentine’s Day Adopt a Wild Animal Program.
January 2021
Suri and Leo are featured in our Valentine’s Day Adopt a Wild Animal Program
