Our Crew
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Ralph
- Born at the Indianapolis Zoo on September 21, 2015
- Shares the same birthday as Chadwick, another longtime lion resident at the Zoo
- Father to Pauline, female lion cub born at the Zoo (moved to Zoo Boise)
Felicia
- Born at Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC on April 10, 2018
- Was the dominant cub in her litter and pride
- Mother to Pauline, born at the Zoo in November 2020 (moved to Zoo Boise)
- Identifiable by the heart-shaped marks on her forehead
Conservation Status
Humans are among the main threats to lions in the wild, according to the IUCN Red List which lists the species as Vulnerable. It is believed that many lions killed by humans are retaliatory or preemptive to protect life and livestock, though trophy hunting is still allowed in some sub-Saharan countries. Habitat loss, depletion of prey, and disease from domestic animals are other factors.
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Species Survival Plans
The Santa Barbara Zoo is one of the 220+ accredited zoos and aquariums that participate in Species Survival Plans (SSP), a cooperatively managed program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). More than 200 different species are managed through SSPs, aimed at maintaining genetic diversity within AZA populations, sustaining these populations, and guarding against extinction.
Wildlife Experiences
Meet the Animals
Have you always wanted to get just a little bit closer to the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Well, you can! Take a look at our animal encounters, and choose the best option for you and/or your family.