The rescued lionesses from Ukraine discover their outside territory at Pairi Daiza
Pairi Daiza is pleased to announce the end of the quarantine period for Amani and Lira, the two Ukrainian lionesses rescued from the war, who arrived at the park on September 20, 2024, as temporary guests. After being saved from the devastations of conflict in Ukraine, the lionesses have completed their isolation period this morning at around 8:30. They were able to explore their new habitat, marking an important step in their journey to a peaceful life.
Upon their arrival, a strict quarantine protocol was followed to ensure both their health and the health of the other animals in the Park. Today, Amani and Lira can gradually explore an area specially adapted for them, within the habitat of the white tigers Mumbaï and Sanka. A glass wall now separates these living spaces.
Initially, the tigers and lionesses will have access to the territory in turns. However, the Park team hopes that, in the coming days, Amani and Lira will feel comfortable enough to allow the tigers to gradually return to their part of the area.
The door to the lionesses' indoor space will remain open, so they can retreat whenever they need rest. This gentle approach allows them to adjust at their own pace, without pressure or constraints.
"The signs of adaptation by the lionesses are encouraging: they appear increasingly calm and serene, demonstrating their resilience and adaptability each day. However, they remain very sensitive to unusual or loud noises, reminders of the traumas they’ve endured. That’s why we are proceeding with patience and kindness to avoid overwhelming them,” said Puria Mahlouji, Head of the Zoology Department at Pairi Daiza.
In a few months, Amani and Lira will move to their permanent home at The Big Cat Sanctuary in England, where a custom-designed habitat is nearing completion. For now, Pairi Daiza is hosting the lionesses until their new sanctuary is fully prepared. Construction is progressing on schedule, and soon the lionesses will be able to settle into their safe, lifelong home. Until then, Pairi Daiza remains dedicated to providing a peaceful, supportive environment that meets all their physical and emotional needs
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone, all the partners and teams, who are making this new chapter possible, allowing these two lionesses to flourish far from the turmoil of their past.
Johan Vreys