Heartbreak as Longleat’s Queen Lion Jasira Dies After Short Illness

Longleat Safari Park is mourning the loss of Jasira, one of its most cherished lions and the respected matriarch of the pride that includes Klaus and Simba. Jasira passed away this week after a brief illness, just shy of turning 21 — making her one of the oldest lions in human care in the UK.

Her death has deeply touched fans and staff alike, especially coming less than a year after the park lost her half-sister, Malaika, from Harry’s pride. Amy Waller, Carnivore Team Manager at Longleat, reflected on Jasira’s remarkable lifespan: “Several of our lions are reaching a grand age, and while it’s always hard to say goodbye to a stalwart like Jasira, we are proud she lived so long. In the wild, lions typically live only 12 to 14 years, so her age speaks volumes about the quality of care here.”

Many fans took to social media to share their memories and grief. Some fondly recalled watching Jasira and Malaika as lion cubs on the park’s TV show, Animal Park. One fan wrote, “I remember seeing Jasira and Malaika as babies on the TV show many moons ago. What amazing long lives they had — it truly shows how well cared for Longleat’s animals are.” Another commented, “So sad to hear this. Beautiful lion — thinking of all the staff. Rest in peace.”

This year, Longleat announced the formation of a new pride with two female southern lions, whose names will be chosen by public vote and revealed later this month — a hopeful new chapter in the safari park’s story after the loss of beloved lions like Jasira.