Juancito's Story

For more than 18 months, Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge worked alongside the Honduran government, international regulatory agencies, veterinary professionals, and an accredited sanctuary partner to create a path to permanent sanctuary for captive-born lions living in Honduras. The historic relocation required extensive planning, international cooperation, and full compliance with CITES and international wildlife transport regulations. Together, these efforts made it possible for the lions to begin new lives in accredited sanctuaries in the United States, where they will receive expert, lifelong care.

Juancito, a ten-year-old African lion, was one of the lions rescued through this international effort. Before arriving at sanctuary, he was exploited by a circus, where he was declawed—a painful procedure that permanently changed the way he walks and continues to affect his mobility. He was also falsely promoted as “half jaguar.” In reality, his unique facial features are far more consistent with the effects of inbreeding, a practice often associated with breeding white lions and other novelty animals for exhibition rather than for their health or welfare.

Today, Juancito has the freedom to make choices every day. His expansive habitat gives him space to roam, explore, and patrol his territory while communicating with neighboring lions through their distinctive “caroling.” Rotating enrichment encourages natural behaviors, and his care is tailored to his individual needs with a species-appropriate diet, nutritional support, expert veterinary oversight, and ongoing health monitoring. Surrounded by compassionate caregivers, Juancito can finally experience the safety, dignity, and lifelong care every wild animal deserves.