Topeka Zoo celebrates World Lion Day

TOPEKA, Kan. (WIBW) – It was a roaring good time at the Topeka Zoo today as it celebrated World Lion Day.

Visitors learned about African lions through various activities, like crafts and talking with keepers, even getting the chance to feel the fur of a former Topeka Zoo lion.

The zoo’s goal was to raise awareness of challenges that wild lions face and explain why it is important to conserve them. They help to make each day better at the zoo.

Melissa Moon is a carnivore keeper at the Topeka Zoo.

“It’s just great seeing all the people that come out and support the zoo and just love the lions in general,” she said. “They’re definitely one of my favorites, and I can definitely see how they can be, you know, the guests’ favorite as well.”

The zoo’s two lions are Tatu and Asante.

43% of Africa’s wild lions have been lost in the past 15 years, so events like these are important in raising awareness.

The Topeka Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets can be purchased HERE.

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