Close up to Aslan

This is one of three lions at Fairy Glen Safari Park. The lions have a large enclosure but are not free to roam the park. They also have a covered pen, with permanent open access to their enclosure. The day we visited they did not want to come out of the pen. they were due to be fed later in the day. They are given half a cow once a week, so that although they do not catch their food they do eat the meat off the carcass.

The male reminded us of Aslan, from the Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, by CS Lewis.

We were able to get really close up - they are huge and in really good condition. We wondered if this was because they don't have to fight and kill their food.

Stewart encouraged us to touch their fur through the bars. It was very soft and we felt very brave!