Growing in Freedom: 18 Years Since the Rescue of the Braila Lions

From neglect and exploitation in Romania to lifelong care at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary

Bethlehem – Eighteen years ago, nine young lions from a struggling zoo in Braila, Romania were given a second chance at life. Today, the Braila Lion Group stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, recovery and FOUR PAWS’ long-standing commitment to ending the exploitation of wild animals.

Born in 2007 in a zoo in Braila, Romania, the nine lions, males Gamba, Jengo, Maru, Samson and Leo, and females Gasira, Luna, Elsa and Ekira, faced an uncertain future from the very beginning. The zoo, burdened by financial constraints and limited space, struggled to provide adequate care. The lions endured poor nutrition, overcrowded conditions and limited veterinary support, which affected their development at a critical stage of their lives.

With resources stretched thin, their future became increasingly precarious, placing them at risk of being sold into the cub petting and photo tourism industry, where wild animals are often exploited for profit. In June 2008, FOUR PAWS intervened just in time, rescuing the lions and relocating them to LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary in South Africa, where they would receive lifelong, species-appropriate care. Their rescue marked a defining early chapter in the sanctuary’s journey, helping to shape LIONSROCK into the leading refuge it is today.

“The Braila Group has been part of LIONSROCK almost since the beginning,” says Hildegard Pirker, Sanctuary Manager at LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary. “They’ve grown alongside the sanctuary, and in many ways, they represent our history and our commitment to every animal in our care.” Initially, all nine lions lived together as a group at LIONSROCK. Over time, however, natural social dynamics and health challenges led to changes in their structure.

In 2017, male lion Leo became seriously ill and, despite extensive veterinary efforts, had to be humanely euthanised. His loss marked a difficult moment for both the lions and their caretakers. His close companion, Ekira, was later moved to the sanctuary’s Special Care Unit (SCU), where she continues to receive specialised attention and care.

Further changes occurred in May 2019, when the remaining males, Gamba, Jengo, Maru and Samson, began competing for dominance over the females. These conflicts resulted in injuries and increased stress within the group. To ensure the safety and wellbeing of all individuals, the sanctuary team made the decision to separate the lions. In 2024, the sanctuary said goodbye to Gamba, one of the original males rescued in 2008, after age-related health challenges affected his quality of life. His passing marked a poignant moment in the group’s journey and highlighted the realities of caring for ageing rescued animals. Today, the three remaining males, Jengo, Maru and Samson, share an enclosure, where they have established a more stable social dynamic. Gasira, Luna and Elsa live separately, allowing them to thrive without the pressures of male competition. Ekira remains in the Special Care Unit, where she shares companionship with neighbouring lioness, Tokkelos.

Despite the challenges they have faced over the years, the Braila lions continue to thrive under the dedicated care of the LIONSROCK team. Now in their senior years, they enjoy spacious natural enclosures, proper nutrition and tailored veterinary support. Their deep, resonant roars can still be heard across the Free State landscape, a powerful reminder of their journey from hardship to healing. “When they arrived, many of them were weak and malnourished, and although still being cubs they were already affected by the neglect they had endured,” says Pirker. “Seeing them recovered, growing stronger and express natural behaviours has been an incredible journey.”

“These lions were once at risk of being used and discarded for entertainment. But luckily, they could be saved at a young age, being protected and able to simply be lions and that is something incredibly special to witness.”
Their story not only reflects the growth of LIONSROCK, now home to around 100 rescued big cats, but also highlights an ongoing global issue: the exploitation of wild animals in captivity. “Their past reminds us why wild animals do not belong in exploitation systems,” Pirker adds. “Their future shows what is possible when compassion leads the way.”

As the Braila Lion Group marks its 18th rescueversary, FOUR PAWS continues to advocate for stronger protection laws and increased awareness to help end the commercial exploitation of wild animals worldwide.

All receive increased medical care due to their advanced age which includes special supplements and medication on demand accompanied by constant monitoring. Jengo, Samson and Maru will be soon moving into our special care unit due to old age-related health conditions.

For more information, please visit our website at lionsrock.org

Author: Deidre Daniels.