From captivity to freedom: BenTzur and Ori's journey to South Africa
Two adolescent lions, BenTzur and Ori, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade in Israel, embark on a life-changing journey to their new sanctuary in South Africa, where they can finally roam free.
BenTzur and Ori, two adolescent lions rescued from illegal wildlife trade in Israel, have made their way to South Africa to live out their days at the Animal Defenders International (ADI) Wildlife Sanctuary. The lions had been stranded for months due to the conflict in the Middle East, which grounded most flights. They finally traveled 50 hours via Cairo and Frankfurt before landing in Johannesburg.
The lions were seized as cubs by Israel's Nature & Parks Authority over a year ago to be used as "trophy pets," a practice fuelled by social media. ADI President Jan Creamer expressed relief at their release and the start of their new life at the sanctuary. The lions quickly adapted to their new surroundings, responding to their carers and exploring their expansive habitat.
ADI is now seeking support to cover the costs of BenTzur and Ori's care for the next 20 years due to their unique challenges.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
