Lions Impact Lake Superior Zoo for Nearly Two Decades

DULUTH, Minn.–A Duluth Zoo takes pride in their well-loved animals. However, it may be time for changes in the future.

The lions have made their nearly two-decade impact at the Lake Superior Zoo. With both of her siblings passing on, 17-year-old Malkia is living her golden years at the zoo. Despite their long presence, zoo staff is preparing to phase out the lion enclosure in the future. They say, they’re looking for an animal a little more equipped for the harsh Minnesotan climate.

“But moving forward we will be hopefully renovating this exhibit to be able to house cats that would be in a much more northern climate, and a much colder environment. So that they’re out a lot more, it’s a much better guest experience for them.” explained Lizzy Larson, Director of Animal Management.

Zoo officials say that they’re going to continue to keep Malkia here at the zoo. The changes in the future will come after she is no longer with us. They have a few ideas on what will come next for this exhibit.

“We’re always trying to evolve and grow the zoo and continue to do better. And this is what this process is about.” said Haley Hedstrom, Chief Executive Officer.
“We talked with our animal care team and our directors to decide what species could potentially go in here. As what Lizzy said, the thing about the Amur leopard or of snow leopards expanding. That we already have Kiran. And we would love to have little baby snow leopards!”

Zoo staff says Malkia is in good health and is enjoying being at the Lake Superior Zoo.