Just over a year after their rescue from a war-torn zoo in Khartoum, eleven lions are thriving at Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary near Bethlehem. Their progress was witnessed first-hand this week by Bloemfontein Courant journalist Justine Fortuin, who was invited to the sanctuary for an exclusive update.

The publication’s visit highlighted not only the recovery of the Sudan lions but also the broader work being done at Lionsrock, a facility that has become a vital hub for big cat conservation in the Free State.

“From hearing faint roars in the distance to standing just metres away from the lions, it was a powerful experience,” Fortuin reported. “Seeing them relaxed and playing after everything they’ve endured is proof of the incredible work being done here.”

The 11 lions were rescued in 2023 by the global animal welfare organisation Four Paws. Trapped in the Al-Qurashi Zoo during conflict in Sudan, they were left without food, water or electricity. Their rescue involved complex international logistics, and their condition on arrival was critical.

“They were severely malnourished, with wounds and deformities from long-term neglect,” said Hildegard Pirker, the sanctuary manager at Lionsrock. “Now, their bodies have healed, and their behaviour is increasingly natural.”

Among the most notable recoveries is Moody, a five-year-old male who arrived emaciated and scarred, without even a mane. Today, he has gained weight, is socially integrated, and has been reunited with his sister Mina.

Lionsrock, home to nearly 100 rescued big cats, is located just over two hours from Bloemfontein. The sanctuary is open to the public for guided tours and educational visits, making it a meaningful destination for residents of the City of Roses.

Pirker said long-term plans include expanding the lions’ habitat. “We want to give them the freedom to move through varied terrain and to live like lions should.”

Breaking news at your fingertips… Follow Caxton Network News on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel.

Nuus wat saakmaak. Volg Caxton Netwerk-nuus op Facebook en sluit aan by ons WhatsApp-kanaal.