PM’S fiancee’s charity in bid to save sick lion in Tehran Zoo
CARRIE SYMONDS’ charity has launched a bid to save a sick lion born at Bristol Zoo but now languishing, unwell, in Tehran.
Kamran the Asiatic lion was born to much acclaim in 2013, as there are only 300 of the species left in the wild.
But its future is now uncertain after visitors reported that the lion appears underweight and listless, and vets confirmed it has feline viral rhinotracheitis, which can lead to death.
Conservationists spoke out against Kamran’s transfer in 2019 to the zoo in the Iranian capital, where at least 14 big cats have died since 2011 after falling ill.
The Aspinall Foundation, for which Ms Symonds is head of communications, urged the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), the zoo regulator, to help move the lion and give it appropriate veterinary care.
Damian Aspinall, chief executive of the foundation, said: “It is completely heartbreaking to hear of the conditions these big cats are being forced to endure. It is vital that these lions get the medical treatment they urgently need and are moved from these enclosures.
“The Aspinall Foundation stands ready to help in whatever way we can.”
Will Travers, head of the Born Free Foundation, said: “The litany of deaths, sickness, mismanagement and more at the Tehran Zoo is an indictment of both the zoo and the EAZA, which made Tehran Zoo an honorary associate member in 2015. Tehran Zoo should not receive new animals from anyone any more.”
A spokesman for Bristol Zoo has said the organisation is “concerned” about the condition of Kamran.
They said: “Animal transfers between zoos are recommended by EAZA. These transfers are not for commercial trade, or for profit – animals are never bought and sold. In this instance, Kamran’s move was recommended by EAZA’S European Endangered species Programme for Asiatic lions.”
The EAZA said there was no evidence of maltreatment, adding that Tehran Zoo meets its standards. A spokesman said: “EAZA has seen no reputable evidence of maltreatment or negligence regarding the care of this animal … With the facts of the case now available, we are confident that it is being handled correctly. We encourage all zoological institutions to aspire to our standards and will continue to provide supervision and assistance to Tehran Zoo.”