Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center Welcomes Male Lion, Tatu

The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is pleased to announce the addition of Tatu, a 4-year-old African Lion. Tatu comes to Topeka from the Denver Zoo in Denver, Colorado and his arrival marks an exciting time of growth for the Topeka Zoo.

Tatu's move to Topeka is based on the Species Survival Plan (SSP) recommendations, which aim to maintain genetic diversity and healthy populations of respective species, especially those that are threatened or endangered. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center is committed to participating in these important sustainability efforts.

In the wild, lion prides typically consist of one dominant male lion, several lionesses, and their offspring. Young male lions often exist solitarily or in bachelor groups, as they are kicked out of the pride when they reach adolescence. The Topeka Zoo is currently home to two geriatric lionesses, Zuri and Asante. Because of the age difference, Zoo staff are uncertain whether Tatu will eventually share the same space as Zuri and Asante, or be kept by himself for the time being.

“Several AZA zoos manage different groups of the same animal,” said Shanna Simpson, Animal Curator. “We have done it ourselves with tigers. When it comes to Tatu’s integration, we will carefully be monitoring behavioral cues from all three cats, as well as following advice from the Species Survival Plan to make sure we are doing what is best for the animals.”

Zoo officials are confident that with careful observation and management, Tatu will be able to thrive and become an important member of the pride. Tatu’s arrival is also an opportunity for the Zoo to participate in valuable research related to the lioness, Zuri.

“Back in 2021, Zuri began growing a mane, following the passing of our other male,” continued Simpson. “This is an extremely rare occurrence, with only a couple of documented cases across the world. We’re curious to see how Zuri’s body responds to Tatu, and whether or not we see another shift in the hormones that prompted the growth of her mane.”

Tatu's arrival is a significant step in the Topeka Zoo's ongoing efforts to support conservation and raise awareness about the threats facing African Lions. With fewer than 20,000 left in the wild, African Lions are classified as a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Tatu will go through the quarantine process inside the habitat located in Camp Cowabunga, meaning there is a chance visitors will see him in the near future. The Topeka Zoo & Conservation Center invites the public to come see Tatu and the other animals in their care, and learn more about their conservation efforts.