Yuna’s journey from war to sanctuary: a lioness’s path to recovery

Remember the lioness who suffered a concussion following a missile attack in Ukraine? There is some wonderful news for her. He is now safe in a sanctuary, where he will spend the rest of his life

We first told you about her earlier this year when, after a missile strike in the Kyiv region, she suffered a concussion. Yuna, a three-year-old lioness, has survived the horrors of war and is now ready to begin a new chapter in her incredible life.

No more suffering, no more captivity

Yuna has found a new home at The Big Cat Sanctuary in Kent, United Kingdom, and has already begun to explore what will now be her permanent residence. Her first steps on the grass smell of redemption.

Her story began long before the russian invasion of Ukraine

Yuna was confined in a 10×13-foot cage at a private residence, with nothing but a hard floor beneath her.

When the war broke out, the lioness was rescued by the Wild Animal Rescue, a part of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), and temporarily transferred to a recovery center.

She remained there until August 16th, when Yuna began her journey towards semi-freedom. It took five days and more than 30 hours on the road to reach the United Kingdom. Another big cat, a male lion named Roni, also took part in this operation.

As soon as Yuna set foot in the sanctuary, she was placed in a private area to recover from the journey and the stress she had endured. The staff at The Big Cat Sanctuary cared for her diligently, ensuring a peaceful and safe environment.

Each day, staff members sat near her enclosure, making sure she had everything she needed. They spoke softly, trying to reassure her and help her regain her trust. It’s not too early to say that Yuna already seems like a different lioness.

Reclaiming her true nature

Yuna has begun to display a playful and curious nature. She has been observed exploring her surroundings, engaging in natural behaviors such as scratching trees and logs—activities that were impossible in her previous confinement. “These playful behaviors not only demonstrate Yuna’s growing confidence, but they are also crucial in rebuilding the muscle strength and mobility lost during her captivity,” the sanctuary explains.

The Big Cat Sanctuary has already shared some wonderful photos of Yuna. Her transformation is deeply moving.

A long road to recovery, but a promising future

The road to rehabilitation is certainly long and full of obstacles, but Yuna will make it. Her dramatic story has touched the hearts of many. Now, she has a happy ending that is nothing short of perfect.

Source: The Big Cat Sanctuary