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Mother and Son Lions in
Shamwari Refuge in South Africa
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Over a year ago, our three lions - mom and her two sons - were rescued and taken to Shamwari through the amazing help of BORN FREE. Photos were unbelievable of the three of them lying on a mountain side, leaping over each other, and eating meat (they were fed sadly on rotten chicken most of their lives in Buhusi and lived in a small concrete cage together).
Sadly, in early August, one of the males died suddenly. At first the mother threw herself against the bars in a fury of sorrow. But now the two remaining lions have deepened their bond and are living beautifully.
For me the loss of the male was particularly poignant. It was Jerry who had caught my eye when he was a cub in the summer 2001. It was how I came to be involved with trying to help the zoo. That summer I raised money for a water system and for winter indoor heaters. When Jerry was grown, and I was at the zoo in 2004 with 86 kids on a project, he and I had an exceptional relationship. I am so pleased that he had at least a year of life in the bush and on the grass with his brother and mom.
Here is their journey in pictures:
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The lions thriving in Africa
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The lions being taken away from Buhusi Zoo
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The lions living on cold concrete in Buhusi Zoo. They barely ever touched grass
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