The Lion Man
Season 1
New Zealand's 'Lion man', Utah-raised farm-boy Craig Busch, an experienced self-taught cat wild 'trainer', runs the Zion Wildlife Gardens in Whangarei, on Northland. The large safari park-type private zoo is devoted to wild felines, notably the nearly extinct Barbary lions (North African), starring male zoo mascot Zion, and rare white Bengal tigers. Other species include serval cats, deer and a rascal baboon, Foxy. His dream is to add the rare African white lion to this collection. It comes within reaches by exchange for some of the cubs he lovingly and successfully raises, largely by hand. Partially to this end, Craig also visits parks on other continents. meanwhile his own infrastructure must be extended, managed and served with PR.
Where to Watch Season 1
10 Episodes
- Episode 4E4
Episode 4Shikana is moved to the new birthing den to try and assist with her second litter. A new face arrives at the park to help Craig. Zion gets to strut his stuff in style practicing for a new appearance on tv. Craig has to enter the wild pride enclosure, will he come out in one piece? - Episode 5E5
Episode 5An English film producer visits to see if the lions could help her with some film work. Rowena from the film crew surprises Craig with some of her contacts, who may be able to help Craig obtain a rare white lion. Lynette gets up close with the wild pride. Jadu needs to see the vet to receive treatment for an injured elbow. Will Shikana continue to care for her baby Sita, or will Craig need to step in. Aslan and Narnia get to visit the beach. - Episode 9E9
Episode 9Craig has arrived back at the park, and the cats can't wait to see him. Zion lets Craig know how he feels about being left alone without his friend. Aslan, Narnia and Savannah have become quite a handful while Craig was away in South Africa. While Craig and Karen are out for a rare night off, white tiger Abu falls ill.