Two rescued lions from war-torn Ukraine have found sanctuary and freedom in Eastern Cape’s Born Free Big Cat Sanctuary.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (14 March 2024) – Two lions have found solace and sanctuary in the lush landscapes of the Eastern Cape, thousands of kilometres away from the turmoil of their past in war-torn Ukraine.
Tsar and Jamil, once subjected to the harsh realities of captivity and exploitation, have embarked on a journey of healing and hope that culminated in their arrival at Born Free’s Big Cat Sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve.
Born into captivity within the confines of a Ukrainian zoo, the two lions were robbed of their innocence at a tender age, torn from their mother’s side and thrust into a world of exploitation. Enduring inadequate conditions and a substandard diet, the young lions faced malnourishment and illness, their spirits dimmed by the cruelty of their circumstances.
However, their plight did not go unnoticed, as local animal protection organisations rallied to secure their rescue and release.
Guided by the compassionate hands of Born Free’s expert animal care team, the lions traversed over 1,000 kilometres, their spirits undeterred by the road’s trials.
“That epic re-homing journey began on Friday night when the brothers were gently loaded into their custom-made travel crates. The lions first travelled by road to Luxembourg airport, before departing for Johannesburg on a specialist flight, kindly provided free of charge by Born Free’s air transport partner Cargolux. After 10 hours in the air, the lions touched down in South Africa. After being met and checked over by Born Free’s vet, Tsar and Jamil’s overland road trip to South Africa’s Eastern Cape began,” the sanctuary said.
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