In 1997, the Cook Report, a British TV documentary series, exposed the captive lion breeding industry in South Africa and introduced the phrase “canned lion hunting”. The shooting of captive bred lions, who have lost their fear of humans, and kept in fenced-off enclosures on private hunting farms. It guarantees the kill and is especially popular with inexperienced trophy hunters. In some cases, the lions are drugged to make it easier for the hunters who pay $50,000 to bring home the head of a lion they have killed. Canned hunt operations also exist outside South Africa.
Diego, born in Czechia in 2016 spent two years growing up in a cage scheduled to be sold for a canned hunt. He was rescued by an animal activist and moved to a small zoo in Slovakia near Bratislava in 2018. The new owner took the responsibility to care for and feed him, but with limited resources after 6 years became overwhelmed and had to give him up, Diego was about to become homeless. Fortunately, the owner reached out to FOUR PAWS who agreed to transfer Diego to a sanctuary: FELIDA Big Cat Sanctuary in Netherlands.
On the 5th of November 2024, accompanied by the FOUR PAWS team, Diego’s journey to a better life began. He seemed to understand this trip was for his own good, staying calm and alert throughout the journey. After several hours and an overnight stop, he arrived at FELIDA.
He has shown no significant health concerns despite the hardships he has endured. Thanks to the activist who rescued him, and the support of the FELIDA team Diego will receive care, space, and freedom. No longer confined to a small space, he now explores, plays, and enjoys the kind of life a lion deserves.
His story is a testament to the power of rescue, compassion, and the unyielding hope that, with the right care, any animal can heal and thrive.
Tigers in America® was happy to provide financial assistance to get Diego home. TIA and Diego would like to thank our donors who made all this possible.