A tribute to Cora
We are extremely saddened to share that we have had to say goodbye to our precious rescued lioness Cora, just a few short weeks after losing her sister and lifelong companion Alpha.
Cora (c) Panthera Africa
Born into the zoo industry, Alpha and her sister Cora lived in cramped conditions for many years at Pena Escrita Zoo, in southern Spain. Thankfully, in January 2017, they were removed from the zoo when it closed following bankruptcy and animal welfare concerns. The sisters were taken in by our friends at Natuurhulpcentrum, a wildlife rescue centre and half-way house in Belgium, where they received expert care while a permanent home was found.
A wonderful natural habitat enclosure for Alpha and Cora was constructed in South Africa, within the Born Free Rescue Section at Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary, funded by our partner, British Airways Holidays. In October 2019, we flew Alpha and Cora to their new home and here, under the African sun, they found a new lease of life. Their mobility, health, and spirits rapidly improved as they clearly enjoyed their spacious enclosure.
As with all our cats, the team at Panthera Africa have taken exceptional care of Cora. We were all aware that losing her sister last month could prove too much for Cora to bear on top of her other, long standing health conditions – a result of inadequate care in her early years. The wonderful Panthera Africa team has been extra attentive to Cora’s needs, spoiled her with extra treats and lots of extra love.
For a short period, Cora appeared to be coping well, she was eating, roaming her enclosure and joining in the early morning lion-roar-chorus across the sanctuary. But sadly, Cora’s health then quickly deteriorated over a couple of days, and they very sadly realised the kindest course of action was to gently put her to sleep.
“Since the first day I met Cora in Belgium, I knew she was a powerful and courageous lioness. She has shown us every day that anyone can overcome their past, and find peace and happiness in the present moment. Her roars and cheeky personality will be missed every day, and she lives on in our hearts forever.” Lizaene Cornwall-Nyquist, Co-Founder at Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary.
We are so sad to lose dear Cora and know she will be sorely missed by all at Panthera Africa. Sleep easy dear lioness, we are proud to have brought you back to your ancestorial home and to help give you all the love and care you deserved in your final years.
PANTHERA AFRICA BIG CAT SANCTUARY