Subira – the lion that outgrew her owner

It is twelve years since a terrified, emaciated, pathetic nine month old lion cub came to call Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary her home. Having been shuttled from one owner to another to yet another, Subira had her share of neglect and misfortune. Like so many other exotic animals, people purchase them thinking it would be “cool” to own such a treasure only to discover that they are unable or unwilling to care for these animals properly resulting in their having to be either euthanized or taken in by a facility. These places are not always of the highest calibre often using these animals as props for human entertainment. They are treated in a cruel and harsh manner often spending years and years in small cages to be ogled and tormented.
Subira has become some what legendary here at AVWS, surprising many a guest to the Sanctuary when they discover a LION on the premises. Subira like all the animals is so fortunate to have such a dedicated and knowledgeable staff caring  and working to satisfy her needs both physical and psychological. The staff of AVWS has set about making life full and exciting for the big cat. No longer does she tuck herself away in her house during the winter months but rather bounds in the snow and takes a daily walk with the staff around her entire enclosure. This activity accomplishes a number of things; the daily walk encourages Subira with the exercise she needs to remain healthy and fit. The time she spends with the staff is reassuring for Subira and allows the staff and Subira to create and maintain a deep bond of trust and loyalty. It is not unusual to find Janalene sitting with Subira communing while the big cat enjoys rubs and scratches as she leans against the fence.  Another benefit to these daily perambulations is to give the staff the opportunity to make sure the enclosure holding this magnificent animal continues to be safe for her and more importantly the public. Some days Subira and the staff just hang out together enjoying the day and their time together.
In the last twelve months, Subira has been receiving enrichment in many shapes and forms. When we have received road kill Subira has been treated to portions of fresh deer meat along with her diet of various meat cuts. Probably one of her favourite summer treats is the “Chickensicle”. This is a whole chicken that is placed in a pot of water and then frozen. Once frozen solid the treat is removed from the pot and given to Subira. First it is a game of bashing it around and pouncing on the “prey”. Then it becomes a luscious and cool treat to lick and enjoy and then the Piece de resistance – the chicken,  which is then devoured in short order. Recently a large plastic barrel was used to challenge the big girl. Large holes were cut into the barrel and then a fine cut of meat was placed inside. It was then up to Subira to roll the barrel around until she was able to extricate the treat. The first few times it took some doing but eventually Subira being the very bright lion she is, figured it out and earned the reward.
Take a moment to watch Subira devour her snack on Cottage Country Peak inside Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary.