Rescued Ukrainian lions arrive in Scotland

Two lionesses rescued from a conflict zone in Ukraine are settling into a new home at a zoo in West Lothian

Four-year-old big cats Luna and Plusza, arrived at the Five Sisters Zoo, West Calder, on Wednesday night.

The lionesses were rescued from an area affected by heavy shelling in eastern Ukraine in 2022, before being moved through Kyiv, Poland, and Belgium to reach the safety of Scotland.

Zoo officials said their purpose-built habitat offers the space and peace they need to recover and thrive after their challenging journey, marking a milestone in the zoo's history of animal welfare and rehabilitation.

A second chance

Gary Curran, head of carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo, said: "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."

This rescue continues the legacy started in October 2015, when the zoo welcomed four lions from a life of suffering in a travelling circus.

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