Though surrounded by over 90 big cats, Phiri makes his presence known. At night, once the lions finish roaring, he chimes in with his unmistakable "whoop-whoop"—a sound that can travel up to five kilometres and reach nearly 112 decibels, almost as loud as a lion’s roar.

Phiri was rescued in January 2010 from poor conditions in a Jordanian zoo and brought to the New Hope Centre of the Princess Alia Foundation, before arriving at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary later that year. His exact age and origin are unknown, but it's believed he was born in Africa.

Now thriving in a species-appropriate environment, Phiri enjoys exploring his enclosure, engaging in sensory enrichment activities, and receiving the occasional egg treat. Keepers say he especially loves sniffing and rolling in "lucky packets" filled with natural smells—even animal droppings, just like hyenas do in the wild.

By day, Phiri is often seen trotting playfully in the sun. By night, he becomes the sanctuary’s unofficial announcer—his powerful whoops echoing across the Highveld, a wild voice living freely at last.