ROYAL OAK (WWJ) — Two months after announcing the departure of a beloved Lion, the Detroit Zoo is welcoming a new one to its pride.
In October the zoo announced 4-year-old Binti — the first lion cub born at the zoo since 1980 — was heading to a new zoo, in part to promote “the health, genetic diversity and overall sustainability” at zoos across the country.
At the time, zoo officials said a new lion would be welcomed soon.
On Friday the Detroit Zoo’s social media pages announced Kalu, a 9-year-old, 475-lb. lion, would be joining females Asha and Amirah at the zoo.
On X, the announcement was made with a little help from the Detroit Lions, who said, “Join us in welcoming the @detroitzoo’s new addition, Kalu to the Pride!”
The zoo’s Facebook post said “OnePride is everywhere, and the pride at the Detroit Zoo is growing too!”
“Help us welcome Kalu, the newest lion to make the Motor City his home. He's ready to lead the pride at the Zoo, much like the Detroit Lions lead the charge on the field,” the post said. “Swing by the Zoo to see Kalu and add a roar to your day – then cheer on the Lions as they prepare for their playoff push!”
The announcement graphic features a Lions logo and lists a few “stats” for Kalu, including a maximum running speed of 50 mph for short distances, a horizontal jump of up to 36 feet and a “roar volume” of 114 decibels.
Officials did not say where Kalu had been prior to coming to the Detroit Zoo. The zoo’s website says he arrived in November.