Rescueversary: Sudan Lions Thrive at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary
FOUR PAWS reflects a year after the successful transfer of eleven lions saved from conflict zones
Dr Amir Khalil, Director Reveal and Rescue Response, emergency veterinarian and leader of the FOUR PAWS led rescue mission, reflected on the dire situation the lions faced in Sudan. He explained - the operation to save the lions was complex, involving extensive coordination to transport them safely to South Africa.
Upon arrival, the lions exhibited signs of extreme neglect.
Their rehabilitation included medical treatment, nutritional support, and enrichment activities to encourage natural behaviours. “They were highly malnourished when they arrived. Many of them had splayed legs and suffered from physical and physiological issues due to their previous conditions,” Pirker explained. “Now, their legs are straightening out, and their movements have become normal. It’s wonderful to see.”
Pirker praises the lions’ progress, stating, “The Sudan lions have adapted incredibly well, especially considering everything they’ve been through as cubs. They’ve formed strong social bonds and behave like a pride of lions, playful and enjoying life.” The rehabilitation efforts also focus on stimulating the lions’ natural instincts. “We give them different textures and scents, hang things from trees to encourage them to stretch and jump. We try to get them moving as they would in the wild,” said Pirker.
One particularly moving case is that of Moody, who is 5 years old and arrived severely malnourished and scarred. “When he came, his face was scarred, and he hadn’t even started growing a mane. Many others his age died of starvation,” Pirker recalled. Moody was reunited with his sister Mina soon after their arrival. Moody’s progress is a testament to the dedication and expertise of the LIONSROCK team, as well as the healing power of nature.
As all eleven animals didn't come from one pride, and three are male the group had to be separated. It is important to ensure that they can be socialised and therefore socialisation efforts between Moody and two older lionesses Kandaka and Kassala will continue. Looking ahead, the goal is to provide these lions with an expansive and enriched environment. “Our long-term plan is to restructure our biggest enclosure at the sanctuary which consists of multiple habitat types, where they can choose where they want to be,” Pirker shared.
The transformation of these rescued lions stands as a beacon of hope and resilience.
For more information about FOUR PAWS and LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, visit our website www.four-paws.org.za
/ENDS
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FOUR PAWS is the global animal welfare organisation for animals under direct human influence, which reveals suffering, rescues animals in need and protects them. Founded in 1988 in Vienna by Heli Dungler and friends, the organisation advocates for a world where humans treat animals with respect, empathy and understanding. The sustainable campaigns and projects of FOUR PAWS focus on companion animals including stray dogs and cats, farm animals and wild animals – such as bears, big cats and orangutans – kept in inappropriate conditions as well as in disaster and conflict zones. With offices in Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, France, Germany, Kosovo, the Netherlands, Switzerland, South Africa, Thailand, Ukraine, the UK, the USA and Vietnam as well as sanctuaries for rescued animals in eleven countries, FOUR PAWS provides rapid help and long-term solutions. www.four-paws.org.za