One of the most moving things when we first rescue any animals who have suffered at the hands of humans, is how they respond to having their own houses and spaces, even toys. It is heartbreaking to see how much it means to them to have something of their own, moving things around their habitats as they please, nobody telling them what to do. We will never forget how we saw Ruben gather all his enrichment together, carrying them into his A-Frame sun shelter. It reminds us of how absolutely everything that gives joy and makes life worthwhile, is taken from these animals. Our job is to give back that sense of self-determination, freedom, and joy for life among their own kind.

Shujaa is now halfway through his quarantine period, since arriving last week from Kuwait where he was rescued with brother Saham from the illegal wildlife trade. Soon he will have access to a 4 acre natural habitat, three platform dens similar to this plus his brick built house.

To adopt Shujaa and help provide his ongoing care: UK store | US store

It might just be the best sight of the week. Shujaa, one of the six lions rescued from Kuwait’s illegal wildlife trade who arrived at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary on Monday night, tackles a Kunduchi catnip punchbag. The lion, who was rescued after being left in the streets of Kuwait City, stepped out of his house cautiously. We wonder what he and his brother, Saham, were thinking as they looked out onto their native homeland of Africa. One thing certainly caught Shujaa’s eye and it was the catnip bag. He battled it for a while before he finally tore it down and carried it proudly into his house to destroy!