Lion Husband Stays By His Sick Wife’s Side Until The Very End
He tried to assist her in eating and held her.
Mueca and Leo have been friends for almost their entire lives. Animal Defenders International intervened to save the family of lions and their young ones from a circus in Peru in 2014. (ADI). During their rescue, they were momentarily split up, but other than that, they were never apart.

According to Jan Creamer, head of ADI, “Leo and their sons, Chino, Coco, and Rolex, were successfully removed during a raid on the first day of the mission in August 2014, but the circus blocked the seizure halfway through and then went into hiding.” They were saved by ADI six months later and more than 600 miles distant. “They were nearly always together, exploring their 4-acre area and resting together under the trees,” writes ADI.

When Mueca unexpectedly became unwell in August, Leo’s already high level of concern for her increased.
Leo has always kept an eye on Mueca, but when she fell ill, it was evident to Creamer that something was amiss. He was observed attempting to calm her and to get her to eat.

Leo kept vigil over Mueca when she was ill and even caressed her to attempt to make her feel better. In such moments, it was evident how deeply the two cared for one another—a lovely illustration of how lions show their affection.
We have frequently observed the ties and intimacy between lion buddies, according to Creamer.

Leo and Mueca were frequently observed hugging over the course of their years together. Research has shown that cuddling helps lions improve their social relationships.
Mueca tragically went away in September at the age of 19. She passed away with the knowledge that Leo loved her deeply since he remained by her side right up until the very end.

Leo is grieving the loss of his beloved Mueca, and his rescuers have been keeping a close eye on him. He has received a ton of additional attention and treats to help him adjust. Leo’s caring for Mueca was so admirable that everyone who was around him will remember it for years to come, despite the fact that losing Mueca was devastating.