Story

Angela, Bellone, Louga and Saida spent many years with a travelling circus. Living in cramped beastwagons, they were forced to perform unnatural tricks, terrified of the whip and deprived of their freedom. Thankfully, they were surrendered by their owner and moved to a rescue centre in France. We are raising funds to take them to our big cat sanctuary at Shamwari Private Game Reserve, South Africa, and provide them with lifetime care in spacious enclosures nestled within the African bush.

Impact

Angela, Bellone, Louga and Saida's plight is the tip of the iceberg. In the last three years, Born Free has rehomed seven lions with connections to French circuses, and in 2020, after years of campaigning by Born Free and other NGOs, plans to ban the use of wild animals in travelling circuses in France were announced. As this legislation comes into effect, we anticipate more animals than ever will require sanctuary homes and expert care. Born Free will continue to help them wherever possible.

Challenge

Transporting four lions over 7,000 miles via land and air will require the expertise of Born Free's highly experienced team. Special travelling crates will be constructed to keep the lions safe; our veterinary team will provide round the clock care; and all the necessary paperwork and permits will be secured. COVID-19 has significantly impacted international travel, but once we can proceed, the lions will be transported from their temporary home in France to their ancestral home, Africa.

Organizer

Updates

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