Leo II

Creator

Shannon Wells

Preview

Source Collection

University of North Alabama Archives and Special Collections, University Collection-University Mascot, Collier Library 

Identifier

UM: 89

Description

Leo II was an orphaned lion cub who came to the University of North Alabama from a Texas ranch in Midland, Texas. His mother died giving birth to he and a twin brother. During his time at UNA, Leo II became the "Honorary ChairAnimal" for National Pet Week in 1990. He also was elected the second-best mascot in the nation in Sports Illustrated in 1997. By his seventh birthday, he has grown to 600 pounds. He attended all home games for the Lions, and some say his presence on campus was an inspiration to every athlete, student and fan of the university. In 1994, UNA's Pride Rock was unveiled. It was a granite rock with Leo's actual paw print embedded in it as a point of inspiration for the team to continue their winning tradition. On March 2, 2000, Leo II passed away during a medical examination at the College of Veterinary Medicine at Auburn University. He was 11 years old. A remembrance for Leo II was held soon after.

Date Created

2-16-2026

Date

1995

Rights

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