Both the Belfast Zoo and Neuwied Zoo participate in a collaborative breeding program aimed at preserving as much of the Barbary lion’s genetic heritage as possible. While the bloodlines maintained in these institutions are not considered entirely free from sub-Saharan lion admixture, they are believed to retain a significant proportion of Barbary ancestry.
These lions trace their lineage back to animals historically kept by Moroccan royalty, which makes them particularly valuable for conservation efforts. Even if they cannot be classified as genetically “pure” Barbary lions.
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