Leo and Muñeca have recognized one another for practically their complete lives. The pair of lions and their kids have been rescued from a circus in Peru in 2014 by Animal Defenders Worldwide (ADI). They have been briefly separated throughout their rescue, however apart from that, they have been not often ever aside.
“Leo and their sons, Chino, Coco and Rolex, have been efficiently eliminated throughout a raid on the primary day of the mission in August 2014, however the circus blocked the seizure partway by after which went into hiding,” Jan Creamer, president of ADI, advised The Dodo. “ADI caught up with them six months later and over 600 miles away, saving Muñeca and their daughters, Africa and Kiara … They have been nearly all the time collectively, exploring their 4-acre habitat and resting collectively beneath the bushes.”
In August, Muñeca instantly fell sick — and Leo instantly turned much more protecting over her than he already was.
“Leo has all the time watched over Muñeca, however when she turned unwell, he clearly realized one thing was incorrect,” Creamer mentioned. “He was seen attempting to encourage her to her meals, and appeared to consolation her.”
Whereas she was sick, Leo stood watch over Muñeca, and even cuddled her to try to assist her really feel higher. In these moments, it was clear simply how a lot the pair liked one another, a fantastic instance of the way in which lions categorical their love.
“We’ve got seen the closeness between lion companions and the bonds they share on many events,” Creamer mentioned.
Research have proven that lions cuddle one another to strengthen their social bonds, and Leo and Muñeca have been caught cuddling many, many occasions throughout their years collectively.
Sadly, Muñeca handed away in September at 19 years previous. Leo stayed by her facet till the very finish, and he or she left this world figuring out precisely how liked she was by him.
Leo’s rescuers have been preserving a detailed eye on him as he mourns the lack of his beloved Muñeca. He’s been getting numerous further treats and a focus to assist him cope. Although shedding Muñeca was heartbreaking, watching the way in which Leo cared for her was such a fantastic second that everybody round him will bear in mind for years to return.
