Lions take 1st steps to freedom after spending years in circus cages
As kids, we loved going to zoos and observing different animals.
We would wait for their next move, anticipate feeding time, and look forward to moving to the next area we knew would leave us even more fascinated.
Growing up, we slowly learn they’re not meant to be in cages.
To be fair, some animals kept behind glass doors are rescued and given proper care before being returned to their natural habitats – like pandas.
Experts know how to care for animals whose species are in danger of extinction.
Some animals, however, are kept purely for business and entertainment.
While it may seem as though they’re perfectly fine, reality can’t be denied.
Animals need to be in the right environment to thrive. Each animal has a unique ecosystem where their basic survival needs are met: food, water, and shelter.
Imagine being transferred or bred in a place where none of these take place naturally.
Thousands of animals worldwide are forced to put up with this daily.
This is a story of four lions who were bred in captivity.
Angela, Bellone, Saida, and Louga spent their entire lives performing and doing tricks in front of loud, noisy crowds.
They didn’t get the nutrition they needed, and their cages didn’t allow enough movement; they merely existed to work for a circus company and provide the entertainment demanded by different audiences.
Thankfully, Born Free Foundation stepped in.
The foundation began to raise funds to bring the lions back to South Africa, and animal welfare foundations like Lazy Lions offered support by providing specialized care for the animals.
Unfortunately, the pandemic made it difficult for the team to progress daily toward their goal.
Despite the setback, the foundation gathered more donations in preparation for the transfer.
It took a while, but the lions received the best care during their temporary stay at an animal rescue center in France – a much better shelter than the cramped cages they had to live in while they were with the circus company.
After more than years of waiting, they were finally on their way home.
The journey from France to South Africa was long, but they made it.
Contrary to what most people believe, animals bred in captivity aren’t released in the wild just like that.
They’re guided through the transition in an enclosed area that offers much better living conditions.
Thankfully, the rescued lions adjusted nicely, taking small steps, sniffing the air, and pacing more comfortably.
Gradually getting used to the environment, the lions were almost ready.
Born Free Manager Catherine Gillson explains,
“The sights, sounds, and scents of their fellow rescued big cats will heighten their senses immediately as they begin to acclimatize to their new lives. They are now in their forever home in Africa.”
How wonderful it is to know that the lions are finally back home! Kudos to the foundation for its tireless efforts.
Watch the video below to find out more about this incredible rescue mission!
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