Large felines such as lions, tigers, and cheetahs are at the top of the list when it comes to deadly creatures. Despite their incredible beauty, those majestic cats are not the sort of cats you want to be around.
That doesn’t stop Armand Gerber and his wife, Beatrice, from spending the majority of their time with the world’s most deadly wild cats. The couple owns and operates the Iron Throne Predator and Wildlife Park in South Africa, a 200-acre sanctuary home to ten lions, three tigers, two leopards, and a cheetah, as well as other rescued wild animals.
“All of the animals here were born in captivity, and 90% of them are still being reared by us – but the most significant thing is that eight of our lions came from a facility that was shut down due to negative press.” “They’re rescues in our eyes,” Armand explains. “They’ve found a home for the rest of their lives.” Every day, I have to defend the fact that we possess lions, but if I could, I would own all of the world’s caged lions.”
Armand acknowledges that all of his wild felines want to be petted, proving the adage that “once a cat, always a cat.” And, of course, to spend the day with their human companion.
Working with such enormous creatures, who are essentially top predators, is quite risky, as Armand is well aware. However, he has a strong desire to be in this position. Wild creatures, on the other hand, should be handled with the utmost respect, he concedes.
“Some people believe I’m insane for taking this job. Some people believe I’m putting my life on the line. Keep in mind that I do this for a job, and I do it with love and trust. I forget how privileged I am to be able to work with and care for these wonderful creatures. Armand said, “They’re my family!”