Archie's Story

In May 2025, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge (TCWR) partnered with Humane World Canada, Aspen Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, and The Wildcat Sanctuary to rescue seven African lions from a closed roadside facility in Quebec. This was TCWR’s first international rescue.

After the cubs were born at the Toronto Zoo, TCWR transported six lions back to the Refuge for lifelong care, including Nirvana and her cubs, Archie and Reggie.

Born July 20, 2025, Archie was the smaller of the two cubs at birth but has quickly caught up in size thanks to TCWR’s care. He is adventurous and curious, often exploring his habitat first, observing, playing, and learning while gradually growing in confidence. Archie is vocal with his mother and caregivers and enjoys interacting with enrichment items and playing with his sibling, Reggie.