Ruben has made a 5,200-mile journey from Armenia to South Africa where he took his first steps out of his travel crate into the home of his ancestors
The 'world's loneliest lion' has returned to his natural habitat after he was abandoned in a private zoo for five years. Ruben, 15, was the only animal left in a private zoo in Armenia after it closed.
The epic journey was organised by Animals Defenders International and Qatar Airways Cargo. Ruben is now being rehabilitated at the ADI Wildlife Sanctuary in Free State, South Africa. At first, Ruben's legs were wobbling due to malnutrition and a "lifetime of no exercise". However, Ruben’s resilience has stunned everyone at the sanctuary.
Jan said: “His whole demeanour has transformed, his face is relaxed and no longer fearful. His determination to walk is inspiring."Incredibly, in just a few days his movement is already improving. We know this will be a long road and will require ongoing veterinary treatment but the start of his new life could not have been better.”
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