FAREWELL QUEEN

QUEEN: 1997-2019

We are sorry to report that beautiful white lioness, Queen, has died.

Queen, an ex-breeding farm lioness, had been looked after by the team at Born Free’s big cat sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve since 2015. She became a regular in our Big Cat Diaries, and was often spotted snoozing under the shade of a tree on warm days. She also loved to roar and would speak to males Jora and Black in the neighbouring enclosure.

Earlier this year Queen was introduced to Brutus and the pair became good companions. Relaxed in each other’s company, they would enjoy the African sunrises and sunsets together.

Born Free’s Animal Rescue and Care Manager Maggie Balaskas, said: “At almost 22 years old, Queen was still an impressive-looking lioness and visitors often commented about how beautiful she was. We will miss her very much but are grateful to have been able to give her a safe and comfortable home for the later years of her life.”