Ruben the lion took his first cautious steps into freedom, unsure and tentative after years of confinement.
At 15 years old, Ruben had forgotten how to roar, having spent the last six years alone in a small cage in Azerbaijan.
Thanks to diplomatic efforts, international collaboration, and a 22-hour flight, Ruben has been given a fresh start at a wildlife sanctuary in South Africa.
The rescue mission began after the Daily Mail brought attention to Ruben’s situation. He was left behind as the only animal in the zoo after the death of its owner, a local businessman.
UK-based charity Animal Defenders International (ADI) led the complex effort to move Ruben from his lifelong enclosure to a safer and more open environment. With support from Qatar Airlines, Ruben finally made it to his new home.
ADI president Jan Creamer shared her emotions, saying, “We were in tears when Ruben stepped out of his crate, walking on grass for the first time in his life.”
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