Yes this was "Indus" they were actually thought to be Asiatics for a long time. It was only after some research that it was realised. They came from Jersey Zoo of course.
Incidentally this animal later developed severe stereotypical behaviour so much so that he was often taken off show as a result of the public complaints and concerns.
They did actually have two pairs for a time, one of which I only ever saw in a holding pen (and, frankly that's all it was) in the courtyard where the Tropical House now stands. THAT pair was, I think purebred P. l. persica, and had come from Jersey. I seem to remember reading that they'd gone to Jersey in 1972, so by the time I saw them in 1985 they must have been very elderly.
I don't know where "Indus" came from - the lioness "Anneka" had been bred at Chester. Both were part of that hybrid East Berlin line that wasted so much time and money.
I have always thought that there's quite a distinct difference in coat colour between Asiatic and African/hybrid Lions; the latter are quite a lot paler. Anyone else agree?
As I understood it, both pairs were impure, including the pair from Jersey.
Regarding colour, I've always though Asiatics are paler in colour than African Lions. I've seen both in the wild too- I was struck at how light-coloured the 'wild' lions in India were.
As I understood it, both pairs were impure, including the pair from Jersey.
Regarding colour, I've always though Asiatics are paler in colour than African Lions. I've seen both in the wild too- I was struck at how light-coloured the 'wild' lions in India were.
I agree, none of the lions at Marwell were pure Indian as far as I know, though they were definately thought to be, and were obtained as such in the first place, for many years, it was only much later that it came to light that their genetic composition was rather dubious.
