Lions saved from Syria and Iraq head to new South African refuge
Most animals at Aleppo and Mosul zoos died and the rescued lions suffered physical and mental trauma
Two lions rescued from war zones in Iraq and Syria have moved to a permanent home in South Africa, after recovering in Jordan from physical and psychological trauma.
The African lions were coaxed with meat into metal crates on Sunday before being loaded into a cargo truck taking them to Jordan’s international airport.
The animal rights group Four Paws International rescued Saeed and Simba in daring war-zone missions last year at Magic World in Aleppo and Mosul zoo. Most animals in those zoos had died during the conflicts.
The lions arrived emaciated, dehydrated and traumatised at the Al Mawa Animal Sanctuary in Jordan last year. But they received medical care including vasectomies and dental work.
That care and a steady diet helped them to put on weight, with lamb saved for treats.
Two-year-old Saeed now approaches people for head scratches and plays with his lead trainer, Saif Rwashdeh.
“He’ll run up into the crate even if there’s no meat, then run out, then run back,” Mr Rwashdeh said.
The trainer travelled with the lions to Johannesburg. He will stay with them for two weeks to help them adjust to the South African sanctuary of Lions Rock in Bethlehem, in the Free State province.
The reserve is home to wild game and more than 90 big cats.
“He’s a happy-go-lucky kind of guy. He loves the interaction. He’s a perfect lion,” said Diana Bernas as she scratched Saeed’s head. Saeed closed his eyes and leant into her fingers.
The young lions are at a ripe age for socialisation and need interaction with larger groups, Ms Bernas said.
“It is bittersweet but we knew he was only going to be here temporarily, so we are happy he’s going to the African sun.”
The animal rights group Four Paws International rescued Saeed and Simba in daring war-zone missions last year