Wild Cat Sanctuary Achieves Fundraising Goal for Ukraine Lion Rescue

A sanctuary dedicated to wild cats, engaged in the rescue of lions from Ukraine, a nation affected by conflict, has successfully reached its fundraising objective. This funding is intended to establish permanent residences for these animals. The Big Cat Sanctuary, situated in Smarden, close to Ashford in Kent, announced it had secured £500,000. This sum is designated to facilitate the rescue of five lions and their transfer to its dedicated lion rescue centre. These funds will cover expenses related to transportation, veterinary care, and the construction of a new habitat for the lions, a project the sanctuary initiated in July. African lioness Yuna arrived at the lion rescue centre in August. The remaining four lions, Rori, Vanda, Amani, and Lira, are scheduled to join her in early 2025. Currently, these animals are housed in various facilities throughout Belgium, specifically Pairi Daiza, Planckendael Zoo, and Natuur Hulp Centrum. Yuna’s transit involved passage through six countries and extended over a period exceeding four days. According to the sanctuary, she experienced shell shock and psychological distress resulting from intense bombing in Ukraine. The sanctuary further stated that she was discovered confined within a concrete enclosure alongside an aggressive male, and persistent shelling rendered her incapable of standing or walking. Cam Whitnall, the project lead at The Big Cat Sanctuary, commented: “This achievement is truly special, and we can’t thank everyone enough.” He added: “Yuna, Rori, Vanda, Amani, and Lira will now have the forever home they deserve.”