The beautiful animal world of Herberstein is in mourning: after the four-year-old lions “Tiberius” and “Spartacus”, as reported, showed symptoms that were as serious as they were mysterious, they had to be put out of their misery on Tuesday. An autopsy is now being carried out on the crowd favorites.
The management of Dierenwereld Herberstein dealt with the problem very transparently from the start, “also in order not to frighten or disturb visitors,” explains representative Karin Winkler. “Tiberius” had obvious problems with his musculoskeletal system, while his brother of the same age was repeatedly shaken by cramps, “both of which were of course visible to our guests in an open space”.
The triplet brother “Maximus” had to be euthanized last year, but to this day we don’t know exactly what caused the problem. Karin Winkler: “The pack of mother ‘Amira’, which came to us from a Czech zoo, is healthy and shows no abnormalities.”
Problems for months
But things had been going badly for the four-year-old lion cubs for months. “Unfortunately, all efforts of our dedicated team around veterinarian Reinhard Pichler were in vain. The two had to be put out of their misery on Tuesday evening.”
Pichler: “The fact is that, despite all possible treatments, the symptoms have worsened enormously. Unfortunately there was no other solution. They will now undergo an autopsy at the veterinary clinic in Vienna, and the road will then continue to the Research Institute for Wildlife.” There has already been a pathology report for “Maximus” and they are now investigating whether genetic causes are the reason.
No further breeding planned
As long as the circumstances are not fully clarified, there are no plans for further descendants, “that would be irresponsible. Although this species of Barbary lion is already extinct in the wild and any breeding success is extremely valuable.”
‘Amira’ and her partner ‘Ceasar’ continue to live together, but the lioness is given hormonal contraceptive measures. PiIchler: “We are now waiting for all the results, then it will be decided whether further breeding is possible. Otherwise there would be castration.”
Karin Winkler: “The lion is the symbol of Herberstein, especially the two young lions were among the absolute favorites of the public and the treasures of our entire team. We are really very sad.”
Wildlife is open Thursday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
