Three more lions rescued from Ukraine arrive at Yorkshire Wildlife Park
The trio have arrived in the UK after a three day journey across Europe
Last updated 29th Sep 2025
Three more lions rescued from war torn Ukraine have arrived at Yorkshire Wildlife Park.
One year olds Oleg, Rafael and Shanti all endured daily bombing at a rescue centre in the Ukrainian capital Kyiv before being brought to the UK by charity the Wildlife Foundation.
The trio waited 15 hours to get across the Polish border, before setting off across Europe for their new home.
Siblings Rafael and Shanti were rescued from a private collection which had been abandoned by its owner in the Kharkiv region - their mother had sadly died.
Oleg was also rescued as a cub from private owners.
WildLife Foundation Trustee Cheryl Williams said: “Their arrival has been incredible, absolutely amazing.”
“This is the third rescue I’ve been involved in and to see them come out so quickly was just incredible.
"Rafael and Shanti had never been apart before, so witnessing the moment they were reunited was truly beautiful. I feel so happy and relieved knowing they’re finally safe and away from the bombing.
“The previous Lions that came out of Ukraine last March are extremely interested in the youngsters who have just arrived, they are definitely the noisy neighbours. They are really curious.
"The Lions that came last year are one big happy family and have settled into Lion Country at the park brilliantly."
Head of Carnivores, Bex Brown, said: “I’m ecstatic and so glad they are finally here, their forever home. I don’t think we can imagine how traumatic their experiences have been.”
“I am relieved they are settling in so well.”
The three new arrivals will be kept in isolation for now before being introduced to the rest of the pride, which were also rescued and brought to Yorkshire.