Deck-building for happy cats
Big cats love to survey their surroundings so, with the help of kind supporters, our sanctuary team in Shamwari, South Africa is creating new viewing decks for some of our rescued lions and leopards.
To Born Free, the well-being of every animal matters deeply and we’re currently doing all we can to provide best possible care for 41 rescued wild cats. This includes 13 lions and four leopards at our two rescue centres at Shamwari Private Game Reserve and, to enrich their lives and keep them stimulated, we’re midst a major project to build robust, wooden observation platforms.
The big cats were rehomed from impoverished lives in circuses, zoos and the illegal pet trade, and at Shamwari we help them regain their health and dignity. But, why go to so much trouble creating viewing decks?
“Big cats love a good view of their surroundings,” explains our Animal Care Manager, Glen Vena. “In the wild, cats seek elevated vantage points to stay alert to prey and potential threats – such as trees, termite mounds, and fallen logs. So, these new structures at Shamwari provide visual stimulation and contribute to our rescued cats’ well-being.
“To date, we’ve successfully completed decks for our lion companions King and Thea, and Ciam and Cersei – all rescued from France’s illegal pet-trade, plus our new-comers – Tsar and Jamil the young lions from Ukraine, and Ginny and Alda from Poland.”
As you can see, the big cats really enjoy climbing up and relaxing on their new decks – the perfect position to gaze across Shamwari’s beautiful landscape of rolling hills and lush valleys.
“I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Jonathan Appleby, David Millar, and Ann Millar for their generous contributions, which have made it possible for us to construct these structures for the cats under our care,” said Glen Vena. “Their support is greatly appreciated and has significantly enhanced the quality of life for our rescued big cats.”
ADOPT KING
King was rescued from an apartment in Paris where he was being kept illegally as an ‘exotic pet’. He now lives happily at Shamwari big cat sanctuary in South Africa.
Your adoption will help provide support and care for lions who live in our sanctuaries, and help our conservation work.