Residents near the Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary in Rosseau, located south of Parry Sound in Ontario’s Muskoka cottage country, have expressed their opinions regarding the temporary housing of seven African lions at the sanctuary last summer. The sanctuary’s executive director, Linda Glimps, mentioned that the organization may consider accepting lions in the future.
The situation arose when A Humane World for Animals, a non-profit group, approached the sanctuary to provide shelter for the lions rescued from a Quebec roadside zoo. Glimps stated that due to ongoing legal proceedings, they had to maintain confidentiality until the lions’ arrival. The sanctuary received funding to construct an enclosure for the lions, emphasizing that it was not intended for long-term lion housing.
Upon the lions’ arrival in May, some were relocated in July, while one lioness had to stay until October to give birth. Nearby resident Carolyn Pearce, who had volunteered at the sanctuary, expressed concern over the lion compound’s construction and the noise disturbance caused by the lions’ roaring at night.
Despite some opposition from residents, others supported the sanctuary’s wildlife rehabilitation efforts. Concerns were raised by the Township of Muskoka Lakes regarding the enclosure’s sea cans and the need for building permits. Mayor Peter Kelley’s office was contacted for comment but did not respond.
Looking ahead, Glimps mentioned that if approached to house a lion again, thorough consideration and dialogue with the community would be essential. The township is currently reviewing the enclosures, and future decisions will be made after thorough assessment.