Turtle Back Zoo
African lions, Demarcus and Sukari, have been adored since their arrival at Turtle Back Zoo in 2017. Both lions are enrolled in a species survival program breeding plan, to directly aide in stabilizing the endangered population of lions in the wild by managing a healthy, genetically diverse, and demographically stable species population in zoos. Their presence at the zoo also promotes education about African lions and the ways in which we can better protect them for generations to come.[1]
Our commitment to protecting African lions continues abroad through the Zoological Society of New Jersey’s global fund. Recently, a donation was made to the Lion Recovery Fund (LRF) to directly engage threats to African lions in their natural habitat. Every dollar donated works to support over 150 projects in 23 different countries to combat the threats to the wild population of lions. These projects focus on repairing natural habitats of lions, on fighting against illegal hunting and trade, and on providing reparations to the local people so that they are willing and able to peacefully coexist with the lions.[2] The Zoological Society of New Jersey hopes that by supporting these many projects, the LRF is able to reach its goal of doubling the wild population of African lions by 2050.
Through membership purchases, donations, and other funds raised, the Society is able to continue with its commitment and contributions to conservation, in order to protect endangered species and their habitats.
Interested in aiding our commitment to conservation?
Become a Member of Turtle Back Zoo or Donate to the Zoological Society of New Jersey.
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[1] Kiefer, Eric. “New Jersey’s Turtle Back Zoo Opens Lion, Hyena Exhibit.” West Orange, NJ Patch, Patch, 13 June 2017, https://patch.com/new-jersey/westorange/new-jersey-s-turtle-back-zoo-opens-lion-hyena-exhibit.
[2] “Home.” Lion Recovery Fund, WCN, 2021, https://www.lionrecoveryfund.org/.