Rescue Leopards Mike and Tulani 

Affectionately known as LIONSROCK’s “resident couple”, Tulani and Mike formed an extraordinary bond after being introduced to their spacious, naturalistic enclosure. Despite their contrasting personalities, different life experiences, and the naturally solitary nature of leopards, the pair developed a strong and lasting companionship.

• Tulani's journey
• Mike’s story
• A heartbreaking farewell to Tulani

Tulani was born in 2002 on a South African safari farm and was purchased as a cub by the previous owner of LIONSROCK in 2003. Like many big cats bred in captivity, she was hand-raised, a practice that often deprives wild animals of their instincts and freedom.

When FOUR PAWS took over the property in 2007, Tulani was rescued from a life of exploitation. Her arrival at LIONSROCK marked the beginning of a new chapter, allowing her to thrive in a safe, enriched environment designed to meet her needs as a wild animal.

Unlike Tulani, Mike was born in the wild. In 2005, he was captured in a live trap after being labelled a “problem animal”, a term frequently used when predators come into conflict with nearby human communities. Instead of being relocated or rehabilitated, Mike was brought to LIONSROCK.

His story highlights the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict, where habitat loss and human encroachment increasingly place wild animals at risk.

With heavy hearts, we had to say goodbye to Tulani, one of our senior leopards at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, who passed away at the age of 23. 

Tulani had been part of LIONSROCK “since forever,” one of the animals already living on the property when FOUR PAWS took it over in 2006. In recent months, Tulani’s age began to show, and she became slower and stiffer in her movements. She experienced muscle atrophy and ate more slowly and less often. She was occasionally seen coughing and sometimes refused food altogether. Despite supportive treatments that brought temporary improvements, her condition continued to decline. When she eventually stopped taking her medication, the difficult but compassionate decision was made to let her go, sparing her further suffering.  Tulani’s passing leaves a deep void, especially for Leopard Mike, with whom she shared her life for many years. 

Rest well, Tulani. You will be greatly missed. 

Tulani and Mike’s story serves as a powerful reminder that wild animals belong in the wild. When returning them to their natural habitats is not possible, sanctuaries like LIONSROCK provide a safe and compassionate alternative, offering lifelong care, dignity, and the freedom to live as naturally as possible.

Today, Mike continues to enjoy the peace, care, and protection of LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary.