Playtime for Lonka the lion – Woburn Safari Park’s African big cat shows his fun side
Woburn Safari Park’s newest African lion, Lonka, has been caught on camera revealing his favourite hobby, playing with giant colourful balls like an overgrown house cat with zero chill.
In a brand‑new short film shot by carnivore keeper Lauren, Lonka pounces, paws and prods his way around a giant ball puzzle, showing off all the enthusiasm of a lion who has completely absorbed in his enrichments. Visitors are already calling him a superstar, and he’s only been in Bedfordshire since July 2025.
Since arriving, Lonka has made himself right at home, confidently exploring his new surroundings and charming the keepers with his big personality. As part of his enrichment programme, the team introduced him to a specially designed ball puzzle created with Bosch and Team Building with Bite. Packed with tempting scents and tricky gaps, the structure gives Lonka plenty of excuses to show off his natural curiosity (and his dramatic flair).
“Lonka has settled in brilliantly and shows real confidence,” said Ben Davies, Head of Carnivores. “It has been fantastic to see Lonka’s enthusiasm for enrichment, and we are delighted to share these moments with our visitors. Experiences like this highlight his natural behaviours, showcasing his impressive sense of smell and dexterity as he works through the giant ball puzzle”
For Lonka, enrichment time is more than a training tool, it’s a chance to play, learn and unleash his inner cub. And now, thanks to this footage, visitors can enjoy his lighter side too.
The film perfectly captures Woburn’s commitment to wellbeing and enrichment, proving that even the kings of the savannah love a good puzzle and a colourful ball.
Watch Lonka in action and see why he’s fast becoming the Park’s newest fan favourite.