Lion Devotes All His Time With Sick Lioness Until She Fades Away

• Leo, Muñeca and their kids were rescued by Animal Defenders International (ADI) from a circus in Peru.
• The lion couple, Leo and Muñeca, have lived together all their lives and have never been apart except for a brief moment during their rescue.
• When Muñeca fell ill, Leo devoted all his time to cuddling, encouraging her to eat and comforting her until she died in September.  

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In August 2014, Animal Defenders International (ADI) rescued a lion family from a circus in Peru. The lion couple Leo and Muñeca have known each other all their lives and have lived with their sons Chino, Coco and Rolex and daughters Africa and Kiara in the circus.

Except for a brief moment during the rescue when the circus hid Muñeca and her daughters, Leo and Muñeca have not been apart.

Jan Creamer, the president of ADI said, “They were almost always together, exploring their 4-acre habitat and resting together under the trees.”

Leo, as head of his pride, has always been protective of his family.  But more so of Muñeca.  He has always watched over her. And when the lioness became suddenly ill, Leo grew even more protective of her. It was as if he had known that there was something wrong with his wife and so stayed with her at all times.

Creamer said, “He was seen trying to encourage her to her food, and appeared to comfort her.”

According to a study, to strengthen their bonds, lions cuddle each other.  And during the time the two were together, Leo was seen cuddling Muñeca countless times. There was no mistaking that the two shared a love so true for all to see.

And when Muñeca took her last breath in September at 19 years old, she was enclosed in Leo’s love and arms.

Leo’s devotion to Muñeca is proof that animals can love as much as humans do. 

With her passing, shelter staff is watching Leo closely as he comes to terms with the death of his beloved Muñeca. He has been getting extra attention and treats to help him ease his pain. 

We wish you well, Leo!

Source: The Dodo