For the past five years, Ruben, a 15-year-old lion, lived as the sole animal in an abandoned zoo, leading to his silence due to the trauma of isolation in a cramped cage.
However, thanks to a rescue by a British animal charity, Ruben is now on the path to regaining his ability to roar.
Jan Creamer from Animal Defenders International explained that the zoo, located near the Armenian-Azerbaijan border, was owned by an Armenian businessman. Most of the animals were relocated after his death, but Ruben remained behind.
“Sadly, there was no room for Ruben,” Creamer stated. “Lions thrive in groups, and roaring is their way of communicating. Ruben has never experienced the outdoors, feeling the sun or the wind, and he is still attempting to roar.”
Ruben is set to move to a sanctuary in South Africa, where his caregivers hope he will fully recover his vocalizations.
The rescue mission required careful planning to avoid exacerbating regional tensions, especially amid the ongoing conflict resulting from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
The deceased owner’s family supported the relocation, facilitating Ruben’s passage through several armed checkpoints.
During the nine-hour transport to safety, Ruben was sedated and monitored by a veterinarian. He arrived at a converted bear sanctuary near Yerevan, Armenia’s capital. He will soon be transferred to an Animal Defenders International sanctuary in South Africa, which caters to lions and tigers.
Born in captivity, Ruben has endured health problems from prolonged isolation and inadequate nutrition.
However, his condition is improving as he adapts to a nutritious diet and comfortable living conditions, including a hay bed, heated rooms, and a spacious enclosure measuring 30 feet by 15 feet.
“This space is unprecedented for him, but the true improvement will come in Africa, where he will have access to 2.5 acres of natural habitat,” Creamer added.
Ruben’s long-term confinement has weakened his muscles and caused potential neurological issues affecting his spine, head, and leg.
“We are strengthening him through exercise and proper nutrition, and he is showing positive signs of recovery,” Creamer noted.
“Ruben is beginning to interact with people, a remarkable change. Although he remained silent for years, we hope he will roar again.”
Read more Wildlife News.
