Seeing an animal in captivity, especially a gorgeous lion, is always upsetting. Unfortunately, there are still a lot of circuses across the world where these lovely wild cats are forced to live in this manner. It all came to an end for two of them when they were rescued and given the opportunity to wander freely by a dedicated crew. It’s an emotional moment when the two lions first touch grass.
Tarzan and Tanya have been forced to live a horrible existence as part of a Guatemalan circus for almost eight years. The two enormous felines had been confined in cramped cages for years and had been mistreated. Fortunately, Animal Defenders International (ADI) — a global animal protection organization – learnt of their plight and raced to their aid.
Despite the fact that these giants are generally brave, Jan and Tim, the president and vice-president of ADI, went to rescue them, they were terrified and puzzled. They had had a difficult and tragic existence that had left severe wounds on their hearts and bodies. And the last ones demonstrate how mistreated these cute creatures were.
Tanya and Tarzan were ultimately transferred to a rehabilitation clinic before being taken away to their new home – a sanctuary in South Africa – after so many years of a tragic life. When they arrived, the two had the opportunity to walk on grass for the first time, and it was a magnificent sight to witness.
In the video below, learn more about Tarzan and Tanya’s rescue!