Life in South Africa for Zemo and Zala

Written by The Aspinall Foundation | 29-Jun-2026 18:00:00

Pictured above, Zemo and Zala as cubs at Howletts Wild Animal Park before their departure.

In October 2024, The Aspinall Foundation sent sibling lions Zemo and Zala to South Africa. Born at our partner park, Howletts Wild Animal Park, to Khari and Grace in mid 2023, the cubs were left without their mother while still very young and had to be hand-reared. As they grew stronger, they moved into their own enclosure at Howletts, where they quickly became much-loved by visitors, many of whom came to say goodbye before their departure to South Africa.

Pictured above, Zala and Zemo in South Africa.

Since arriving in South Africa, Zemo and Zala have continued to settle into their new surroundings as they adjust to life in Africa. They continue to explore their large naturalistic enclosure each day, while being closely monitored by their care team. To mimic a wild diet, they are provided with game meat twice a week on varying days and at different times, which they both eagerly gobble down, whilst keeping a short distance from one another to avoid any conflict, as both are very food-orientated.

Pictured above, Zala in South Africa.

Zala has developed into a strong and charismatic lioness, continuously prowling and often seen stalking birds brave, or silly enough, to land in the enclosure - we shall let you be the judge of that. Zemo, by contrast, is far more relaxed, preferring to spend his days basking in the sun and only occasionally joining Zala on her more strenuous adventures. He is often heard calling in the mornings and evenings alongside other males on the reserve, creating a beautiful, deep, rumbling chorus that echoes for miles. It is such a joy to know they are enjoying the African sun, exploring and settling into their new life so well.

Pictured above, Zemo in South Africa.

Zemo and Zala are now growing into confident young lions, spending their days exploring, prowling, calling and resting beneath the African sun. Their journey is a reminder that every animal in our care depends on expert teams, safe spaces and ongoing support to give them the best possible future.

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