Rescue Genghes and Khan Group
From a life of exploitation to experiencing a second chance
Born across multiple litters in 2006, lions Genghes, Khan, Thandi, Shamelle, Malika, Son, Fiona, Bridgette, Scratchy, Kyla, Sahara, Zita (Didi), Tokkelos and Limpy endured a harsh start to life. Removed from their mothers at a young age, they were hand-raised and exploited in the cub petting industry before facing the threat of canned hunting.
Their future changed when FOUR PAWS acquired the property where they were being kept and established LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary. The rescue gave the pride a chance to leave behind a life of exploitation and begin a new chapter in a safe and caring environment:
Special Care and Individual Needs
Years of improper breeding practices, inbreeding and inadequate nutrition left some members of the pride with significant health challenges. To ensure every lion received the care they needed, several individuals were moved to specialised enclosures.
Thandi, Shamelle, Malika and Son remained together as a close-knit group. At the same time, Tokkelos and Limpy were relocated to dedicated special care units where their unique medical and welfare requirements could be closely monitored and supported.
Remembering Those We Lost
Over the years, the pride has experienced heartbreaking losses linked to the lasting effects of their difficult upbringing.
Fiona, Kyla, Genghes, Sahara, Didi, Scratchy, Bridgette and Khan have all passed away. Many suffered from degenerative conditions and cancers that were likely connected to years of poor breeding and inadequate early-life care.
Genghes was humanely euthanised in February 2023, followed by Scratchy in August 2023, after both experienced severe spinal degeneration and declining quality of life. Sahara was euthanised in May 2023 after being diagnosed with advanced blood cancer. Khan was compassionately euthanised in November 2023 due to deteriorating health, while Didi passed away in June 2024 from cancer affecting the circulatory and lymphatic systems.
Although they are gone, their stories remain an important reminder of the consequences of wildlife exploitation and the importance of sanctuary care.
Life Under the African Sun
Today, Thandi, Shamelle, Malika, Son and Limpy continue to enjoy the safety and security of their forever home at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary.
Free from the cruelty of cub petting and canned hunting, they receive expert veterinary care, nutritious diets and the opportunity to express natural lion behaviours in spacious habitats designed for their well-being.
Their journey is one of resilience, survival and hope, a powerful example of how rescued animals can thrive when given the chance to live with dignity, respect and compassion under the African sun.
