by the pandemic, the females angela, bellone and saida, along with the male louga, have been released into the shamwari big cat sanctuary in south africa. born into captivity, they had spent their lives performing in a french travelling circus. transported around the country in cramped trailers, this journey began when louga attacked the circus owner, who then decided they should go to an animal welfare group. the wildlife charity the born free foundation stepped in and a plan was hatched to transport the lions to africa. early this week, the foundation told bbc breakfast what it would be like for the animals to make what could be considered a return home. just imagine, every cell in their body is going to feel at home because of the warmth of the sun, the sense and sounds surrounding them. but they will still have a function, because the born free foundation s big cat rescue centre is in shamwari
john maguire reports. free at last. after two years of delays caused by the pandemic, the females angela, bellone and saida along with the male louga, have been released into the shamwari big cat sanctuary in south africa. born into captivity, they had spent their lives performing in a french travelling circus. transported around the country in cramped trailers, this journey began when louga attacked the circus owner, who then decided they should go to an animal welfare group. the wildlife charity, the born free foundation, stepped in and a plan was hatched to transport the lions to africa. early this week, the foundation told bbc breakfast what it would be like for the animals to make what could be considered a return home. just imagine, every cell in their body is going to feel at home because of the warmth
Four Bengal tigers and four lions have been rescued, after much of their lives were spent in circuses and tight living quarters, as part of two rescue operations. They will now live in wildlife sanctuaries in South Africa.