Rescue Lioness Andi 

Andi, a lioness, was born in May 2011. As a young cub, she was purchased from a zoo in Timisoara, Romania, by two young women who intended to use her as a mascot for tourist photographs on the beach.

When they learned that it was illegal for private individuals to keep wild animals, they arranged for an animal lover living outside Timisoara to care for Andi. Unfortunately, the environment provided was completely unsuitable for a growing lion cub.

For most of her early life, Andi spent approximately 20 hours each day confined to a room measuring just 9 square metres. She lived entirely alone, without the space, stimulation or companionship that a young lioness needs to thrive.

For an active and playful cub, this prolonged isolation would have been extremely distressing and deprived her of the opportunity to develop natural behaviours.

In the months leading up to her rescue, Andi's owner followed the nutritional and medical recommendations provided by the FOUR PAWS veterinary team. This helped prepare her for the next stage of her journey.

On 5 July 2012, Andi finally arrived at LIONSROCK, where she could begin a new life in a safe and caring environment.

Simba was born in 2014 at Montazah Al Morour Zoo in the eastern part of Mosul, Iraq, during the ongoing conflict in the region.

As the war intensified, the zoo's animals faced unimaginable hardship. Most of the approximately 40 residents either died from starvation, were killed in bomb attacks, or escaped from damaged enclosures.

When the FOUR PAWS rescue team first entered the zoo in February 2017, they found only two animals still alive: a bear named Lula and Simba the lion.

Both animals were rescued and transported to Jordan, where they underwent more than six months of rehabilitation and recovery. Thanks to dedicated care and support, Simba regained his strength and was eventually ready to travel to his permanent home.

On 26 February 2018, Simba arrived at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, where he could finally enjoy the safety, space and care that every lion deserves.

In 2021, Simba was successfully socialised with Andi, allowing both lions to enjoy companionship in their forever home.

Simba spent his remaining years at LIONSROCK, where he received expert care and lived in a natural environment designed for rescued big cats.

Sadly, Simba passed away in March 2025. His story remains a powerful reminder of the resilience of animals and the importance of wildlife rescue and protection.

Today, Andi continues to thrive at LIONSROCK, surrounded by the peace, dignity, and freedom that all wild animals deserve