Leo's History
All of the funds for the care and feeding of Leo III, along with the operation and maintenance of his habitat, come from donations and sponsorships.
April 14, 1973
July 22, 1974
Brought to UNA by President Guillot
1974 - 1988
January 20, 1988
July 1988
April 28, 1997
1988 - 2000
March 2, 2000
2002
November 18, 2002
2002 - Present
Una and remains their primary caregiver.
2003
2003 - Present
Roar Lions!
Leo I
Leo II
Leo III and Una
The Howards – Our Lion Keepers
In 2002, Dr. Dan Howard and his wife Annemarie Howard brought two lion cubs, Leo III Una, back to the Shoals from their birthplace in New Hampshire. The couple kept the cubs at their home through the duration of the construction of the George H. Carroll Lion Habitat, which was large enough to accommodate two growing lions. Throughout the time spent with the Howards, the lion cubs formed a bond with Anne and Dan, the couple often taking turns bottle-feeding little Leo III and Una.
Pretty soon, it was time for the lions to move into the habitat, and the Howards were most always there, preparing their meals, providing treats, and watching them grow into majestic creatures. Dan and Anne worked closely with local veterinarians, Dr. Matt Connolly and Dr. Brandon Fisher, to provide ongoing care throughout the lives of Leo III and Una. In June of 2020, Una passed away after veterinarians found an inoperable tumor.
Dr. Dan Howard passed away in January of 2022, and Anne continued the tradition of spending her days with Leo III and working with a group of individuals internally at UNA as well as externally to ensure Leo III would continue to receive the best care. Mrs. Anne passed away suddenly in January of 2024, and her legacy continues to live on in Leo III and his ongoing health and vitality.