Mandla

Name: Mandla
Born: Approximately January 2015
Arrived at LLA Sanctuary: April 2016
Lives with: Isibindi
Tawny Male
Parents: unknown

Mandla, a popular name in South Africa, means “power” in Zulu. An incredibly fitting name for this mighty lion, who came to Love Lions Alive sanctuary in the autumn of 2016. He and his brother, Isibindi, came to us after a friend of the sanctuary happened to stumble into the happenings of a deal between breeders selling the lions to hunters in the Eastern Cape. Unable to prevent themselves from intervening, they stepped into negotiations and purchased Mandla and Isibindi instead, then asking Love Lions Alive to take them in and spare them from their fate. Buying animals from breeders just helps to perpetuate the industry of breeding. It is not the way to save lions from lives in captivity. However, in this situation, we felt it imperative to create a home for the lions that were already on their way to us. We do not support the purchasing of lions for the “rescue trade” as it is just another form of lion trade. The proper way is to stop breeding.

Mandla has grown into a confident lion with a magnificent mane and powerful pose. He is truly our most “wild” lion, with no need for human contact. He loves to flex his prowess, challenging anyone who comes near his territory, as he is the King (especially in his mind!) of all the lions. He lives vivaciously and proudly, and will do so for the rest of his life at Love Lions Alive sanctuary.