Lions, tigers from notorious zoo in Argentina begin journey to wildlife sanctuaries

Thirty lions and tigers are being relocated from the former Lujan Zoo in Argentina to wildlife sanctuaries in South Africa and the United States. The animals, previously kept in cramped concrete cages, began their journey on Friday. This significant rescue operation, described as one of the largest captive big cat relocations globally, is being overseen by the international animal-welfare organization Four Paws. Nine tigers and six lions will travel to the Lionsrock sanctuary in South Africa, while the remaining eight tigers and seven lions will go to The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Colorado. The transfer involves complex international flights and ground transportation to ensure the cats' well-being.

Thirty lions and tigers are being rescued from the former Luján Zoo in Argentina, a facility shut down in 2020 due to animal welfare concerns. The international animal welfare organization Four Paws is overseeing this large-scale relocation, described as one of the biggest of its kind. Fifteen of the big cats are being flown to a sanctuary in South Africa, while the remaining fifteen will travel to a refuge in Colorado, USA. The transfer marks a significant improvement in the animals' lives, as many had suffered from poor health due to the zoo's inadequate conditions. This operation leaves over twenty big cats still at the Luján site while Four Paws seeks suitable long-term homes for them.