Two lions transferred out of the Gaza Strip by international animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS have arrived in South Africa.
The organisation said in its biggest emergency mission to date a total of 47 animals had been rescued from a neglected zoo in Rafah, Gaza on 7th April.
"Most of the animals were brought to Jordanian wildlife sanctuaries. However, FOUR PAWS transferred lion Motan and lioness Pisa to its South African big cat sanctuary LIONSROCK," the organisation said.
The lions arrived at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday and were transported to the sanctuary near Bethlehem in the Free State.
"The lions arrived in a relatively good condition. We will release them in a special care unit. This is important during their adaption phase to ensure they get used to their new surroundings and caretakers," said Hildegard Pirker, head of the animal welfare department at LIONSROCK.
"Both will be closely monitored and we will evaluate their well-being throughout," he said.
The sanctuary houses over 100 big cats rescued from zoos, circuses, war-torn areas, and the canned hunting industry.
(Pics: Supplied)
