Longleat Safari Park has announced the death of Jasira, the matriarch of Klaus and Simba's pride, following a brief illness. She was just a few months away from her 21st birthday, making her the oldest lion in human care in the United Kingdom.
Jasira's Legacy at Longleat
Jasira's passing comes after the loss of her half-sister, Malaika, from Harry's pride, last year. Carnivore Team Manager Amy Waller said: "Several of our lions have or are reaching this grand age, and while it's always sad when we lose an animal, particularly a stalwart like Jasira, we are very proud that she lived as long as she did as her age is testament to the care she received here. In the wild lions live to around 12-14 years of age."
Public Tributes and Memories
Supporters took to Facebook to express their devastation. One commented: "I remember seeing Jasira and Malaika as babies on the TV show many moons ago, what amazing long lives they had, goes to show how well cared for Longleat's animals are." Another said: "I'm sorry to hear this sad news, beautiful lion, thinking of all the staff, R.I.P beautiful." A third added: "Oh no so so sad. What an amazing age. Goes to show how wonderfully these animals are cared for to live so long."
New Pride Being Established
Earlier this year, Longleat announced that a new pride was being established with two new female southern lions. The public will vote on the names, with the winning choices to be announced later this month.
Separate Incident: Dog Abuse Prosecution
In a separate case, James Andrew Marchant, 42, and Clair Yvonne Malik, 42, of Privet Drive, Bristol, pleaded guilty after a malnourished dog was filmed being thrown over a six-foot garden gate. On September 5, 2025, a neighbour recorded Marchant hurling the dog, called Boomer, over a wooden gate onto a paved surface. The vet confirmed the dog would have suffered pain and distress. The RSPCA prosecuted the case.
