A pair of lionesses that were saved from a conflict zone in Ukraine have arrived in West Lothian.
Four-year-olds Luna and Plusza arrived at Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder on Wednesday night. The animals were rescued from a part of east Ukraine in 2022 that was heavily affected by shelling.
After being rescued from the war zone, the lionesses, who were kept by a private owner, were moved through Kyiv to a zoo in Poland after receiving medical care. They were then transported via Belgium to finally reach safety in Scotland.
According to officials at Five Sisters Zoo, their purpose-built habitat will provide optimal conditions for Luna and Plusza to recover following their distressing journey. They say it marks an important milestone in the West Lothian zoo’s history of animal welfare and rehabilitation.
Head of carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo Gary Curran commented: “The safe arrival of Luna and Plusza underscores our commitment to giving lions a second chance at life. Our team is ready to provide the care and support they need to live out their lives in peace, just as we have done for others before them.”
The rescue of Luna and Plusza continues Five Sisters Zoo’s legacy of saving animals in need. In October 2015, the zoo previously received four lions that had been suffering in a travelling circus.
Five Sisters Zoo is allowing visitors wishing to help the lionesses’ recovery to make one-off donations. The money will help fund the animals’ initial husbandry and veterinary care.
The new additions come as the zoo celebrates nine years since rescuing its first pride of lions in 2015.
Boss, Skinny, Twin 1, and Twin 2 were rehomed from a travelling circus in Belgium, but sadly Skinny is the only survivor of the pride.
Don’t miss the latest news from the West Lothian Courier. Sign up to our free newsletter here