We are celebrating World Lion Day today (10th August) by officially introducing King the young lion to our adoption scheme.

King was introduced to his new home at Born Free’s big cat sanctuary in Shamwari Private Game Reserve, South Africa, a month ago, and he is settling in well. He was rescued from an apartment on the outskirts of Paris in October 2017 where he was being kept illegally as an ‘exotic pet’ in a small, dirty cage. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we were able to give King a permanent home in a large, natural bush enclosure at Shamwari.

By adopting King, you can help fund his food, veterinary care and enclosure upkeep at our big cat sanctuary.

Dr Chris Draper, Born Free’s Head of Animal Welfare & Captivity, says: “During our campaign to give King a lifetime home at Shamwari, lots of supporters asked us whether King would be available to adopt, so we are delighted to be able to officially launch his adoption today. With your help, our young lion will be able to enjoy his new life free from harm in his ancestral homeland.”

King is adapting nicely to his new home. He likes to explore, watch the antics of his neighbours Jora and Black, and is intrigued by moths and other insects he encounters. Like other new arrivals at Shamwari, King will soon be taught to avoid any snakes that may make their way into his natural enclosure. 

For £3 a month, or a one-off payment of £36 for the year, you can help fund King’s care. King’s adoption pack includes King’s story, a glossy photo, cuddly toy, personalised certificate and Born Free window sticker. All our adoptions last one year and you will receive updates on King via our biannual Adopt! magazine.

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