Rescued lions and tigers on an Easter hunt for boxes filled with catnip and hay. Rescued from circuses, the illegal pet trade, and zoos around the world by Animal Defenders International (ADI), these big cats swapped their cramped bare cages for huge natural habitats of several acres in the heart of South Africa. 

Jan Creamer, President ADI: “Before we rescued these lions and tigers, they were in tiny cages, on bare boards, they never got to run at full speed, or express themselves, they saw life through bars and never felt the sun on their backs. When we rescue them, many are mentally shut down, but at the Sanctuary, they burst into life – it is wonderful to see them run at full speed for the first time, explore and become real big cats. 

“These animals cannot go back into the wild, they have been too damaged by captivity, so we provide large natural habitats to roam, explore and play. For the lions, they are back where they belong.  Additional enrichment like these Easter treats brings fun and excitement to the cats – something new, interesting and engaging, and importantly, it keeps these intelligent animals physically and mentally healthy. You can see from this video, just how engaged they are and enjoying the fun.

“Happy Easter to all the ADI supporters who make our work possible.”