A numb from a private zoo of the Russian oligarch is rescued by the British (photo)
After the death of the businessman, all the animals were dismantled, and the lion remained alone in a tight cage for a long time and from the absence of tribesmen learned to grow away. The British charity "Animal Defenders" took up the rescue of Ruben to further transport him to the reserve in South Africa. "Unfortunately, there was no place for Ruben. Lions live in family groups, and growls are communicating with them. He still tries to growl.
Ruben never felt the sun on his back or wind on his face," said charity staff. The rescue operation was planned as secret and thought out very carefully to avoid exacerbation of tension in the region that aggravated after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The family of the former oligarch wanted Ruben to live better, and agreed to transport it, for which the zoos had to overcome several armed checkpoints.
Ruben was under sleeping pills and under the supervision of a veterinarian during a nine -hour trip to a safe place. He is now quarantined in the bear reserve of the Wildlife Conservation Fund and cultural values near Yerevan. In March, it will be taken to the adi shelter in South Africa for lions and tigers. Ruben was born in captivity, and in recent years of his health worsened because he spent time alone and was poorly fed.
When the zoos first saw it, the animal's wool was confused because of dirt and molting, and it looked thin and depressed. Video tests with Dr. Peter Calduelle concluded that Leo's health problems are best solved in South Africa, where there are technologies (CT, MRI, ophthalmologists) and comprehensive postoperative care. He needs a dental surgery that will be done in Africa. He also has a neurological problem, possibly spinal injury or brain.
The animal has little pupils (myosis), but she sees, reacts to humans and has good hearing. Now his condition is improving because he was provided with a large aviary and good food. "It's more space than he ever knew, but a real transformation will take place in Africa, where he will eventually access up to 2. 5 acres of the natural environment.