Farewell to Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s Beloved Lions, Dakari and Kamari
For over a decade, Dakari and Kamari, the iconic African lions of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, have stood proudly atop the Kilimanjaro Safaris savanna.
Known for their powerful roars and noble demeanor, the two lions mesmerized guests daily with their majestic appearance! They grew to be fan favorites and quickly evolved into symbols of strength and beauty for millions of park visitors.
However, Dr Mark Penning, Vice President of Disney’s Animals, Science & Environment, recently shared a bittersweet announcement.
The time has come to say farewell as Dakari and Kamari retire to a conservation haven in Florida.
Dakari and Kamari
Dakari and Kamari’s legacy extends beyond Animal Kingdom. For many years, they have been cared for by animal keepers, veterinarians, and an entire animal care team and will be greatly missed.
In addition, these lions inspired the live-action version of The Lion King, which was released in 2019. Their powerful movements and regal behavior helped bring the characters to life on screen.
Their time at Animal Kingdom helped spread the importance of conservation and protecting African lions in the wild, a message Disney will continue.
A New Pride
As these cherished lions from Animal Kingdom move on and retire, Disney is excited to welcome a new pride—a group of young siblings—coming soon to the savanna.
Guests will have the chance to meet these new arrivals and witness the bond between this brother and two sisters.
No specific details have been released yet, but stay tuned for updates on when the new lions will debut.
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Feature Photo/Article Source: Disney