Two lionesses rescued from a conflict zone in Ukraine have arrived at their new home in Scotland.
Luna and Plusza, both aged four, reached the Five Sisters Zoo in West Calder, West Lothian, on Wednesday night.
The lionesses were rescued from an area heavily affected by shelling in eastern Ukraine in 2022, and were subsequently moved through Kyiv, Poland, and Belgium before finally reaching the safety of Scotland.
Zoo officials stated that their purpose-built habitat provides the space and peace they need to recover and thrive after their difficult journey, marking a significant milestone in the zoo’s history of animal welfare and rehabilitation.
Gary Curran, head of carnivores at Five Sisters Zoo, commented: “The safe arrival of Luna and Plusza underscores our commitment to giving lions a second chance at life. Our team is ready to provide the care and support they need to live out their lives in peace, just as we have done for others before them.”
This rescue continues the legacy initiated in October 2015, when the zoo welcomed four lions rescued from a life of suffering in a traveling circus.