The Idaho Falls Zoo is thrilled to welcome two new residents to the African lion exhibit: Kenya and Dixie, a sibling pair who arrived this summer from the Abilene Zoo in Texas.
The 12-year-old lions spent several days behind the scenes acclimating to their new surroundings, getting to know their keepers, and completing a standard quarantine period before stepping into their outdoor habitat for the first time on July 9. Visitors can now see the lions on exhibit throughout the summer.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Kenya and Dixie to Idaho Falls,” said David Pennock, Zoo Executive Director. “They’ve adjusted well and are already exploring and enjoying their new home.”
While 12 years is considered old for lions in the wild, where females typically live around 15 years and males around 12, Kenya and Dixie are under excellent veterinary care in a safe, enriching environment. Zoo management and staff are hopeful they will enjoy many more years to come in Idaho Falls, as lions in human care often live significantly longer. Kimani, the zoo’s previous lioness, lived to be 21.
As siblings, Kenya and Dixie will not breed. The Idaho Falls Zoo is an active participant in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP), which ensures the long-term survival of species by managing genetic diversity across accredited institutions. Breeding recommendations are made based on genetics and population needs, and Kenya and Dixie’s genes are already well represented in other litters.
Kenya and Dixie’s arrival follows the April departure of Hondo, the zoo’s previous male lion. Hondo was transferred to the Pittsburgh Zoo as part of the SSP to join two unrelated females in hopes of a future breeding opportunity. According to recent updates, he is adjusting well to his new home.
The Idaho Falls Zoo is open Tuesday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., with last admission at 4:30 p.m. On Mondays, the zoo remains open until 8 p.m., with last admission at 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.idahofallsidaho.gov/zoo.
